by Apple has announced that it will temporarily stop selling certain models of its smartwatches in the United States as it battles a patent infringement case related to technology for detecting blood oxygen levels. The decision comes in response to a recommendation from the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) to ban the import of Apple Watch models that allegedly violate patents held by Masimo Corp.
The USITC issued a limited exclusion order that is scheduled to take effect after Christmas if not overturned by President Joe Biden. While a presidential review is currently underway, Apple has taken preemptive action by pausing the sale of Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 on its website from December 21, and in retail stores from December 24.
An Apple spokesperson stated that the company is complying with the potential ruling, pending the conclusion of the review period on December 25. On the other hand, Masimo, the patent holder, commended the USITC’s expert judgment and emphasized the significance of upholding intellectual property rights.
Apple argues that the ITC’s finding is incorrect and intends to seek a reversal through a federal court if necessary. The basis of the order stems from a complaint filed with the commission earlier this year, claiming that the Apple Watch infringes on Masimo’s patented technology for light-based oximetry functionality.
The Apple Watch Series 9, released in September, boasts improved performance and health-monitoring capabilities. Apple has made significant advancements in fitness and health features with each iteration of its smartwatch, making it a dominant player in the market.
In its defense, Apple stated that it is dedicated to providing users with cutting-edge health, wellness, and safety features. It believes that Masimo is wrongly using the ITC to obstruct the availability of a potentially life-saving product to millions of US consumers while promoting its own watch, which allegedly imitates Apple’s technology.
Apple filed two patent infringement lawsuits against Masimo last year, claiming that the company copied features of the Apple Watch. This ongoing legal battle highlights the importance of intellectual property rights and serves as a reminder that even industry giants like Apple must adhere to patent laws.
As the review period comes to a close later this month, the fate of the Apple Watch models at the center of the dispute remains uncertain. Apple watchers and consumers alike await the conclusion of this patent clash, which could have significant implications for the wearable technology market.
Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. With an MBA in E-commerce, she has an expertise in SEO-optimized content that resonates with industry professionals.
