Highlights

• Apple removes pulse oximeter from smartwatches to avoid U.S. import ban.
• Ban followed Masimo’s complaint alleging intellectual property infringement.
• Temporary sales halt of Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the U.S.
• Apple seeks permanent stay on ban, pending appeal decision.

Apple, in a recent development, has decided to remove the pulse oximeter feature from its smartwatches.

This move comes as a response to an import ban that had temporarily affected the sales of its latest Apple Watch models in the United States.

Background of the Import Ban and Recent Developments

Last month, Apple faced an import ban following an order from the International Trade Commission (ITC).

The ban was a result of a complaint by Masimo, a medical device manufacturer.

Masimo accused Apple in 2021 of using its talent and intellectual property to incorporate pulse oximeters in its watches.

Despite a failed patent infringement suit against Apple, Masimo prevailed in the ITC ruling last year, leading to the ban on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2.

Apple briefly halted sales of the affected models in the U.S. following the ITC’s decision.

However, sales resumed temporarily after a federal court intervened and paused the ban.

On Friday, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, in agreement with the technical modifications proposed by Apple, allowed the removal of the pulse oximeter functionality from the watches.

This adjustment aims to lift the import ban, as mentioned in Masimo’s recent court filing.

Ongoing Legal Proceedings

Currently, Apple is seeking a permanent stay on the ban while its appeal is being considered.

The decision on this matter is expected to be announced this week.

If the federal appeals court rules in favor of permanently staying the ban, the pulse oximeter feature might continue to be available in Apple Watches.

Technical Implementation

The method of removing the pulse oximeter functionality from the Apple Watches remains unclear, but it is likely to involve software updates.

Apple has expressed concerns that maintaining the ban during the appeal process could cause the company “irreparable harm.”

Future Outlook for Apple

Apple is known for its innovative approach and resilience in the face of challenges, suggesting that it will likely find a solution that aligns with its high standards for design and functionality.

The Apple Watch SE, which lacks certain features of the other models, remains unaffected and continues to be available to customers.

This situation is indicative of Apple’s broader approach to overcoming business and technical challenges.

The company’s response could set a precedent for how large tech companies adapt to market pressures and regulatory environments.

FAQs

Why is Apple removing the pulse oximeter feature from its smartwatches?

Apple’s decision to remove the pulse oximeter feature from its smartwatches is a direct response to an import ban in the U.S.

This ban was imposed following a complaint from Masimo, a medical device manufacturer, alleging that Apple infringed on its intellectual property to develop this feature.

Which Apple Watch models are affected by the import ban?

The import ban specifically targets the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models.

These models were briefly pulled from the U.S. market last month, following the International Trade Commission’s ruling in favor of Masimo.

What is the current status of the import ban on Apple Watches?

Apple successfully obtained a temporary halt to the import ban from a federal court, allowing the resumption of sales.

However, the company is still pursuing a permanent stay on the ban, with a decision expected from a federal appeals court this week.

How will Apple remove the pulse oximeter functionality from its watches?

While the exact method of removing the pulse oximeter functionality from Apple Watches hasn’t been disclosed, it is likely to involve software updates.

This technical change is essential for lifting the import ban as agreed upon with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

What led to the ban of Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the U.S.?

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled that these models infringed upon patents owned by Masimo, particularly concerning blood oxygen level monitoring technology, leading to the ban.

How did the Biden administration respond to Apple’s situation?

The Biden administration, through U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, chose not to intervene, thereby allowing the ITC’s ban to take effect from December 26, 2023.

What actions has Apple taken in response to the ban?

Apple has initiated a legal appeal against the ITC’s ruling and is making technical adjustments, including redesigning the affected watch models for U.S. Customs approval.

What are the implications of the ongoing legal battle between Apple and Masimo?

The dispute underscores the competitive and complex nature of patent law in the tech industry, with potential significant impacts on both companies and broader industry innovation.

Are Apple Watches still available for purchase despite the ban?

Yes, models not affected by the ruling, like the Apple Watch SE, are still available, and retailers like Amazon and Best Buy continue to sell their existing inventory of the banned models.

What are the next steps for Apple in addressing the ITC’s exclusion order on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2?

Apple is actively exploring both legal and technical solutions to lift the ban on its Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models.

A key milestone will be the decision by the U.S. Customs office, expected on January 12, which will determine if Apple’s proposed redesign infringes on Masimo’s patents.

Apple’s redesign, reportedly involving a software update to modify the blood oxygen monitoring feature, is yet to be detailed publicly.

The outcome of this decision will be pivotal in determining the future availability of these Apple Watch models in the U.S. market.

What are some alternative smartwatches if I can’t purchase an Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2?

For iPhone users, the Apple Watch SE, priced at Rs 29,990, is a viable alternative, especially for those seeking basic smartwatch features like activity, workout, and sleep tracking.

Although it lacks ECG and blood oxygen monitoring, it offers heart rate notifications and irregular rhythm alerts.

For those looking beyond Apple’s ecosystem, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro emerges as a strong contender, offering a robust set of features and seamless integration with Android devices especially Samsung ones, making it a worthy option for users seeking versatility and advanced functionality.

Also Read: Apple Appeals ITC’s Exclusion Order of Apple Watch Models and Plans Redesign

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