NEW YORK: Apple temporarily ceased sales of its Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches in the United States, starting this week. The decision is in response to an ongoing patent dispute related to the technology powering the blood oxygen feature in these devices.
The dispute stems from an October order by the US International Trade Commission (ITC), which suggested barring Apple from importing Apple Watches due to a violation of medical technology firm Masimo’s patent rights. While the decision is currently under review by President Joe Biden until December 25, Apple is taking proactive measures to comply with the ruling if it stands.
Patent Dispute Around Apple Smartwatches
The Office of the US Trade Representative, responsible for handling the case, mentioned that Ambassador Katherine Tai is carefully evaluating all factors before making a decision. If the ruling is not vetoed, the import ban is set to take effect on December 26.
To adhere to potential restrictions, Apple disclosed that it temporarily halted sales of the affected watches on its website starting December 21, with a similar action to follow in Apple retail locations after December 24. It’s essential to note that other Apple Watch models, such as the Apple Watch SE, which lacks the blood oxygen sensor, remain unaffected by the ongoing patent dispute.
