The Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 sales in the US have been a rollercoaster ride due to a patent dispute with medical device company Masimo. Here’s a breakdown of the situation:
- The Issue: Masimo accused Apple of infringing on their patents related to blood oxygen monitoring technology used in the Apple Watch.
- The Ban: In December 2023, the US International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled in favor of Masimo, leading to a ban on Apple importing and selling the Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 with blood oxygen features.
- The Fight: Apple contested the ruling and obtained a temporary stay on the ban. However, the appeals court reinstated the ban in January 2024.
- Apple’s Response: To keep the watches available, Apple removed the blood oxygen functionality from the US models.
Current Situation (as of April 8, 2024)
- Apple Watches are still being sold in the US but without blood oxygen monitoring.
- The legal battle between Apple and Masimo is ongoing. Apple is appealing the ITC’s decision.
- US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) considers the redesigned Apple Watches compliant, allowing their import.
Unresolved Issues
- The future of blood oxygen monitoring features in Apple Watches in the US remains uncertain.
- The final verdict on the patent infringement case will determine the long-term implications for Apple.
Impact
- This situation has limited functionalities for US Apple Watch users who rely on blood oxygen monitoring.
- It highlights the complexities of patent disputes in the tech industry.
Stay Updated
The situation is developing, so keep an eye on tech news for updates on the legal battle and the potential return of blood oxygen monitoring to Apple Watches in the US.
