In a surprising development that has caught the attention of tech enthusiasts and divers, Apple has declared a halt in sales of its Apple Watch Series 9 and the Ultra 2 models, equipped with a dive computer, in the United States. This decision is a direct result of an ongoing patent dispute with medical device manufacturer, Masimo.
The Ban’s Genesis
The International Trade Commission (ITC) has enforced an import ban on these particular Apple Watch models, specifically targeting the SpO2 sensor technology. This sensor, essential for tracking blood oxygen levels, is especially vital for the Ultra 2 model, which also functions as a dive computer. While the ban impacts sales within the US, other models like the Apple Watch SE and earlier versions with the blood oxygen sensor remain unaffected.
Masimo’s Legal Battle
Masimo, a firm recognized for its pulse oximeter, has been locked in legal battles with Apple, alleging that the tech behemoth has infringed on its pulse oximetry technology. The dispute encompasses two cases, with the current ban stemming from the ITC case.
Apple’s Stance
Apple has expressed strong disagreement with the ITC’s ruling. Company spokesperson Nikki Rothberg underscored Apple’s dedication to ensuring the availability of the Apple Watch, which includes exploring legal and technical alternatives. Apple is also investigating software modifications to address the patent infringement issues.
Presidential Review Period
The ITC’s ruling is currently under a presidential review period, set to conclude on December 25th. President Biden holds the power to veto the ban, a move that has historical precedence but is seldom exercised. The tech community and consumers are eagerly awaiting the outcome of this review.
Implications and Future Course
Should the ban persist, Apple plans to reintroduce the affected models, including the Ultra 2 dive computer, into the US market. This could entail legal appeals or technical alterations to resolve the patent concerns. The situation remains fluid, with potential substantial impacts on Apple’s product offerings and strategies.
The suspension of sales for the Apple Watch Series 9 and the Ultra 2 dive computer in the US underscores the complex relationship between patent rights and consumer technology. This development holds particular significance for the diving community, given the Ultra 2’s distinctive functionality. As the situation evolves, Apple’s responses will be under close scrutiny for their wider implications in the tech and diving sectors.
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