Apple Appeals Ban on Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 Sales in the USA
The recent ban imposed by the Biden administration on the import and sale of Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 models in the United States has stirred controversy in the tech world. The ban, initiated following an October ruling by the International Trade Commission (ITC), alleges patent infringement of blood oxygen saturation technology owned by medical tech company Masimo.
The ITC Ruling
The ITC ruling asserted that certain Apple Watch models, specifically those equipped with a blood oxygen (SpO2) monitoring feature, violate Masimo’s patented technology. As a consequence, the ban officially took effect on December 26, prompting Apple to cease online sales of the affected models on December 21.
Apple’s Response and Legal Battle
Filing an Appeal
In response to the ban, Apple swiftly filed an emergency appeal with the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. The tech giant seeks a temporary stay on the ban, at least until the US Customs and Border Protection reviews redesigned versions of the watches for potential patent infringement by January 12.
Disagreement with the ITC
An Apple spokesperson expressed strong disagreement with the ITC’s order, emphasizing the company’s commitment to taking all necessary measures to restore the availability of Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 to customers in the US.
Masimo’s Allegations and Background
Masimo’s Patent Claims
Masimo, a medical tech company based in California, claims that Apple’s pulse reader feature infringes on its pulse-oximeter technology. The dispute centers around the blood oxygen monitoring functionality incorporated into Apple’s wearable devices.
Presidential Review Period
The ban followed a 60-day Presidential Review Period that expired on December 25, during which the Biden administration chose not to veto the ITC’s determination. This decision further escalated the legal battle between Apple and Masimo.
Impact on Apple’s Wearables Lineup
Continued Sales Outside the US
Despite the ban in the US, Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 remain available for purchase outside the country. International customers can still access these models, emphasizing the global impact of the ongoing legal dispute.
Apple Watch SE Unaffected
The ban does not extend to the Apple Watch SE, a budget-friendly wearable lacking the SpO2 sensor. This particular model remains unaffected and continues to be available for sale in the United States.
As Apple navigates through legal proceedings and awaits a decision from the US Court of Appeals, the fate of the Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 in the US hangs in the balance. The outcome of this case will likely have significant implications for the wearable technology market and intellectual property disputes within the tech industry.