In a significant development impacting Apple’s 2023 product lineup, the tech giant is set to halt the sales of its latest smartwatches, the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, in the United States. This decision, communicated via 9to5Mac, is a direct consequence of a patent dispute with medical technology company Masimo, specifically targeting the blood oxygen sensor technology incorporated in these models.
This legal contention dates back to a January ruling where a judge determined that Apple’s implementation of blood oxygen monitoring technology in its watches infringed upon Masimo’s patents. The International Trade Commission (ITC) upheld this finding, leading to the impending sales suspension. This technology was a key feature introduced in the Series 6 models of the Apple Watch.
The Impact of the ITC Ruling
Apple has scheduled the suspension of online sales of these models for 3 p.m. ET on December 21. Furthermore, the availability of these smartwatches in Apple’s retail stores will cease after December 24. This move comes despite a 60-day review period by the President Biden administration, during which a potential veto could have been issued but was not.
Interestingly, this ruling does not affect the Apple Watch SE and earlier models, as they do not feature the disputed sensor. The functionality of this sensor in existing watches will continue as usual.
In their official statement, Apple stressed their ongoing commitment to providing cutting-edge health and wellness features in their products. The company expressed their disagreement with the ITC’s decision and highlighted its pursuit of various legal and technical avenues to keep the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 available to U.S. customers.
Broader Implications of the Ruling
Apple’s position is that the ruling, if sustained, could have wider implications, potentially harming suppliers, consumers, and even the broader economy. It’s noteworthy that Apple’s wearable division generated a substantial $13.48 billion in revenue during the first quarter of 2023, indicating the significant market impact of this decision.
While this sales halt is confined to the U.S. market, Apple will continue to offer the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in other international markets. The company remains hopeful for a governmental intervention to overturn the ITC’s decision.
