Apple’s Decision to Pull Smartwatches from US Stores
Apple has recently made a significant move by halting the sale of its latest smartwatches, namely the Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2, from its online stores in the United States. This strategic decision arises from a legal conflict involving patent disputes with Masimo, a prominent medical device maker. The disagreement centers around certain technological features present in these smartwatch models, particularly their blood oxygen sensors (known as SpO2 sensors).
Reason Behind the Ban
The core of the issue lies in an impending import ban set by the US International Trade Commission (ITC), which is slated to take full effect on December 26. In response to this regulatory decision, Apple ceased the sale of these specific smartwatch models through its US retail outlets starting December 24. Additionally, not only the latest models but also refurbished versions of earlier watches with SpO2 sensors, such as the Series 7 and Series 8, have been removed from Apple’s online store. Furthermore, special editions of the Series 9, like the Apple Watch Nike and Apple Watch Hermès, are impacted by this ban.
Impact Limited to the US Market
It’s crucial to note that the repercussions of this ban are confined to the US market. Customers in other countries are not affected by this restriction and can continue to purchase these smartwatch models without impediments.
Uncertainty Surrounding Duration
The duration of this ban remains uncertain, leaving a question mark over when these watches might reappear for purchase in the US market. The timeline for resolution largely hinges upon the ongoing legal dispute between Apple and Masimo.
Apple’s Attempt to Challenge the Ban
Apple made attempts to contest and delay the import and sales ban of the Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2. However, their efforts were met with rejection by the US ITC. The heart of the dispute revolves around the technology embedded in these smartwatches, particularly the SpO2 sensor. In a ruling last October, the ITC found that Apple’s implementation of this sensor technology infringed upon patents held by Masimo, hence triggering the ban.
Apple’s Pursuit of Solutions
Apple is actively exploring software modifications to address these patent concerns regarding the SpO2 sensor technology. Simultaneously, the company is delving into various legal and technical avenues to potentially find a resolution that would allow these smartwatches to be accessible to consumers, even amid the ongoing disagreement with Masimo.
In summary, the conflict between Apple and Masimo over patented technology has resulted in the removal of specific smartwatch models from the US market, presenting challenges for Apple as it endeavors to find a resolution that would allow the re-entry of these devices for sale to customers.
