Table of contents
Apple is stopping sales of its premium smartwatches, the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, in the United States due to an ongoing patent battle with medical technology startup Masimo.
This decision is the outcome of an International Trade Commission (ITC) judgment concerning the SpO2 blood oxygen sensor technology integrated into these gadgets. The ITC order, issued in October and then upheld in a January judge's decision, sparked a 60-day Presidential Review Period, which is slated to end on December 25.
In consideration of potential consequences, Apple has taken precautionary measures, halting sales of the impacted models on its website after 3 p.m. ET on December 21 and ending in-store inventory after December 24.
Source: 1
Source: 2
Source: 3
Impact on Apple Sales
The ITC ban only affects Apple's sales channels, permitting other retailers like Amazon and Best Buy to continue selling the impacted devices until the December 25 deadline. All imports of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 into the United States will be forbidden after this date, potentially affecting availability through various retail locations.
It is important to note that the ITC ban only applies to devices equipped with a blood oxygen sensor. As a result, the Apple Watch SE, which lacks this capability, is unaffected and still available for purchase.
Existing SpO2 sensor-equipped gadgets are likewise exempt from the ruling, ensuring users that their operation will not be affected. The ITC order contains a provision for service, repair, or warranty issues involving equipment sold before December 25, assuring continuous assistance for customers with current devices.
Despite expressing strong disagreement with the ITC's judgment, Apple is aggressively pursuing both legal and technical possibilities to maintain the availability of the Apple Watch, emphasizing the device's significance in providing consumers with health, wellness, and safety features.
Despite hurdles from the patent battle and regulatory issues, Apple is committed to restoring the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to U.S. customers as soon as possible if the ITC's verdict is upheld, the company informed 9To5Mac.
The situation is fluid, and Apple is prepared to take a variety of steps to handle the challenges posed by the protracted litigation and regulatory decisions.
Masimo's Point of View
Masimo's lawsuit, which was initially focused on Series 6 gadgets, dates back to June 2021. Apple, according to the medical company, "began hiring Masimo employees, beginning with Masimo's Chief Medical Officer."
The main point of contention is pulse oximetry, which detects blood flow using an optical sensor. Masimo got FDA approval last month to market its wrist-worn gadget for both prescription and over-the-counter use.
Apple vs Masimo Highlights
Apple's decision to halt sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the United States is the result of a patent dispute with Masimo over the blood oxygen sensor. In consideration of a possible Presidential Review, the ITC order has prompted Apple to proactively comply with the decision, affecting the availability of these wearables.
Apple remains dedicated to addressing the issues and bringing these devices back to customers in the United States, emphasizing their importance in offering health and wellness services. The complexity inherent in the junction of technology and healthcare is highlighted by the deep specifics of this continuing conflict.
