Apple Watch Ban: Everything You Need to Know

Apple is facing a significant legal battle that could change the landscape of its wearable tech market in the United States. A patent infringement case involving medical device maker Masimo has led to an import ban on Apple’s latest watches, the Series 9 and Ultra 2, if they include disputed blood oxygen technology. Here’s a comprehensive look at the situation.

The Ban and Its Repercussions

In December, the US International Trade Commission (ITC) imposed a ban on the import and sale of Apple’s Series 9 and Ultra 2 watches, citing patent infringement. The patents in question pertain to pulse oximetry technology developed by Masimo. This ruling means that any Apple Watch models equipped with this technology cannot be sold in the US.

Initially, the court lifted the ban temporarily, allowing Apple some respite. However, the stay was later revoked, reinstating the ban on watches with the disputed features. In response, Apple announced that it would begin selling new versions of the Series 9 and Ultra 2 without the blood oxygen sensing capabilities starting Thursday, January 18th.

Apple’s Response and Legal Maneuvers

Apple is not taking this ban lightly. The tech giant has filed an extensive appeal, a 916-page document, with the Federal Circuit, contesting the ITC’s decision. Apple argues that the Masimo W1 watch, which contains the patented technology, was not available when Masimo filed its complaint, suggesting that the claims may be unjustified.

Pink Series 9 on a reflective pink surface. Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge

Highlights from Apple’s Appeal:

• Patent Dispute: Apple maintains that it did not infringe on Masimo’s patents and that the ITC's decision was based on incomplete information.

• Domestic Industry Impact: The ITC concluded that Apple’s infringement was harming the domestic industry, a point Apple disputes in its appeal.

• Masimo’s Product Timeline: Apple argues that Masimo’s product, the W1 watch, wasn’t on the market at the time of the complaint, calling into question the validity of the infringement claim.

New Models Without Disputed Features

To comply with the ITC ruling and avoid disruption in sales, Apple is launching new versions of the Series 9 and Ultra 2 without the blood oxygen measurement features. These updated models will be available for purchase starting January 18th.

What This Means for Consumers:

• Availability: Consumers will still be able to purchase the latest Apple Watch models, but without the blood oxygen monitoring feature.

• Feature Trade-Off: Users looking for comprehensive health monitoring might need to consider the absence of this feature in the new models.

The Bigger Picture

This legal tussle underscores the complexities and high stakes involved in the tech and medical device industries. Patents and intellectual property rights play a crucial role in protecting innovations, but they can also lead to significant market disruptions.

Industry Impact:

• Medical Device Patents: The case highlights the importance of patents in the medical device sector and their potential to impact consumer electronics.

• Future Developments: How Apple resolves this issue could set a precedent for future patent disputes, especially in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Stay Updated

For those keen on following Apple’s ongoing legal battle and its implications, keep an eye on the latest news and updates. This case is evolving, and its outcome could have far-reaching consequences for Apple and the tech industry at large.