If you’re planning to surprise your loved ones with the latest Apple Watch for the holidays, you might want to act fast. Apple has recently announced that it will temporarily halt sales of its two newest models, the Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2. This decision comes as a result of an ongoing dispute over a patent for the technology used in the blood-oxygen sensor of these watches.
The Patent Dispute and Impending Ban
Apple’s sales suspension is in response to an expected ban by the US International Trade Commission (ITC). The federal agency is currently considering a ban due to the patent dispute between Apple and medical tech company Masimo. Masimo filed a lawsuit against Apple in 2021, alleging that the tech giant had infringed on one of its patents relating to light-based blood-oxygen monitoring.
In October, a judge ruled in favor of Masimo, confirming that Apple had indeed infringed on the patents. The ITC upheld this ruling, leading to the current situation. If the ban is implemented, it would only affect Apple’s ability to import the Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 into the United States.
To comply with the anticipated ban, Apple has decided to pause sales of the Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2. Sales on Apple.com will cease at 3 pm Eastern on December 21, and in-store inventory will no longer be available at retail locations starting on December 24. However, it’s important to note that the ban only affects Apple’s sales channels. These watches will still be available on other retailers like Amazon and Best Buy for the time being. Additionally, customers outside of the United States will still be able to purchase the Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2.
Exploring Apple’s Options
Despite the setback, Apple has several options for getting its wearables back on the market. The company plans to lodge an appeal in federal court to challenge the ruling. Another potential option is to reach a settlement with Masimo, potentially by deactivating the blood-oxygen sensing features in the watches. The specific course of action Apple will take is yet to be determined and will likely become clearer after the 60-day presidential review period, which expires on December 25.
The Masimo W1
Interestingly, Masimo, the company that filed the patent infringement lawsuit against Apple, has recently announced that its own health-tracking smartwatch, the Masimo W1, has received FDA clearance. This development adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing dispute between Masimo and Apple. The Masimo W1’s FDA clearance implies that the company has met the necessary regulatory requirements to bring its product to market, potentially intensifying competition in the smartwatch industry.
Here : Check out the best samsung devices at the best prices
What Lies Ahead for the Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2
As the review period expires on December 25, more information about Apple’s plans for the Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 should become available. It’s possible that the company will modify the watches to address the patent infringement concerns raised by Masimo. Alternatively, Apple may choose to pursue legal avenues to overturn the ruling. Either way, Apple enthusiasts will be eagerly awaiting updates on the future of these highly anticipated smartwatches.
