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2024-12-30
Apple Suspends Sales of Latest Apple Watches in the US Due to Patent Dispute
Apple has halted sales of some of its latest smartwatch models in the United States as it battles a legal dispute over blood oxygen level detection technology. This move comes after the US International Trade Commission (USITC) recommended a ban on imports of Apple Watch models that allegedly infringe on patents held by Masimo Corp.
Background of the Dispute
In mid-2021, Masimo filed a complaint with the USITC, accusing Apple Watch of infringing on its patented technology for “light-based oximetry functionality,” a feature used to measure blood oxygen levels. The USITC issued a “limited exclusion order” in November 2024, which would go into effect after Christmas if not overturned by President Biden. This order essentially bans imports of Apple Watch models with the blood oxygen sensing feature.
Apple’s Response
Apple maintains that the USITC’s decision is wrong and plans to challenge it in federal court. The company argues that its technology is innovative and does not infringe on Masimo’s patents. However, in an effort to comply with the potential import ban, Apple has proactively suspended sales of Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 from its website starting December 21st and from US retail stores after December 24th.
Masimo’s Perspective
Masimo, on the other hand, believes the USITC’s decision is a vindication of its intellectual property rights. The company argues that even large corporations like Apple must abide by laws protecting innovation. Masimo feels Apple’s technology infringes on its patents and is concerned about potential harm to consumers if Apple is allowed to continue selling its infringing products.
What Undercode Says:
This patent dispute highlights the ongoing competition in the wearable health technology market. Apple Watch has become a dominant force in the smartwatch category, and its health features are a major selling point. Masimo, a company specializing in medical monitoring devices, sees Apple’s blood oxygen sensing technology as a threat to its own products and intellectual property.
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Here’s an additional analysis to consider:
Impact on Consumers: The import ban, if upheld, could limit consumer choice and potentially drive up prices of smartwatches with blood oxygen sensing capabilities.
Innovation and Competition: This dispute raises questions about how patent law can balance protecting intellectual property with fostering innovation in the tech industry.
Focus on Health Features: The popularity of blood oxygen monitoring in smartwatches reflects a growing consumer interest in wearable health technology. This trend is likely to continue, and future smartwatches may integrate even more advanced health-related features.
Overall, this patent dispute between Apple and Masimo is a complex issue with implications for consumers, the tech industry, and the future of wearable health technology. The outcome of the legal battle will be closely watched by all parties involved.
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