Apple, the technology giant, has recently announced that it will be suspending sales of its flagship Apple Watch models in the United States. This decision comes as a result of an International Trade Commission (ITC) ruling in a patent dispute between Apple and medical technology company, Masimo.
Starting later this week, the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 will no longer be available for purchase directly from Apple. However, it is important to note that this ban only applies to the blood oxygen monitoring capabilities of these particular models. The lower-end Apple Watch SE remains unaffected by the ruling and will still be available for purchase.
While Apple is prohibited from selling the affected Apple Watch models, other third-party retailers will still be allowed to sell them. However, after December 25, the ITC ruling will also block any imports of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 into the United States.
It is worth mentioning that any Apple Watches already sold with a blood oxygen sensor will not be affected by this ruling. However, Masimo, the medical technology company, has accused Apple of patent infringement in relation to the Apple Watch’s pulse oximeter feature.
The ITC ruling is set to expire on December 25, and the decision to veto it lies with the Biden administration. As of now, no decision has been made regarding the matter. Apple believes that this ruling will have negative consequences for the company’s suppliers and consumers. Furthermore, it could potentially hinder ongoing and future health studies that heavily rely on the Apple Watch.
Apple has stated that it plans to challenge the ITC’s decision once the Presidential Review Period has run its course. On the other hand, Masimo has filed a separate lawsuit against Apple, alleging patent infringement and trade secret misappropriation.
As Apple halts sales of its flagship Apple Watch models in the United States, the future of the popular wearable device hangs in the balance. The ITC ruling, the potential veto decision, and the lawsuits filed by Masimo add layers of uncertainty to the situation. Bio Prep Watch will continue to monitor this story as it develops.