Apple is going to resume sales for its smartwatches in Series 9 and Ultra 2 after the US Trade Body on Wednesday decided to temporarily lift the ban following Apple’s appeals.
The decision follows after the renowned tech giant faced a significant setback after its latest smartwatches, the Series 9 and Ultra 2, were banned from sales in the US due to a patent dispute with medical device company Masimo. Despite its disagreement with the ruling, the White House had chosen not to reverse the decision, leading Apple to announce plans for an appeal. Despite the ban being lifted, this legal clash has not only puts a dent in Apple’s smartwatch market but also raises broader questions about the impacts of wearable technology notwithsatnding the decision is temporary in nature.
Why Apple faced Sales Ban?
The USITC initiated the ban after finding Apple guilty of infringing two patents owned by Masimo Corporation. The medical device manufacturer claimed that Apple engaged in unfair practices, including the recruitment of key personnel, to steal technology related to blood oxygen level measurement. The disputed feature has been a part of most Apple smartwatches since 2020, excluding the lower-cost SE model.
Apple’s Response and Appeals
Company expressed strong disagreement with the USITC’s decision and promptly removed the affected watches from its US stores and website earlier this month. The company contends that the ban hampers consumer access to innovative products. Apple had also filed an emergency request with the US Court of Appeals to overturn the ban which has fortunately come out in it’s favour.
The Role of the White House
The ban, issued in October, was subject to a 60-day review by the President, with the authority to veto the decision. The review period concluded on Christmas Day, and the White House, through the United States Trade Representative Ambassador, Katherine Tai, chose not to reverse the USITC’s ruling after careful consultations.
Masimo’s Perspective
Masimo views the decision as a victory for the US patent system and consumers. The company believes that upholding the ban reinforces the integrity of intellectual property rights and encourages genuine innovation.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Decision
Company has requested a stay on the ban until the CBP assesses whether the redesigned versions of its watches, excluding the disputed technology, violate Masimo’s patents. The CBP is expected to announce its decision on January 12. The fate of the Series 9 and Ultra 2 watches in the US market depends on this assessment.
Future Implications
The lift on ban has not extinguished the questions completely yet about the impact on I-watch market share and potential financial consequences. Known for innovation, is determined to navigate this legal challenge and restore access to its latest smartwatch models for US consumers.
As Apple navigates the legal complexities of the patent dispute, the tech industry watches closely. The outcome could set precedents for intellectual property protection in the rapidly evolving world of wearable technology. Consumers and competitors alike await the decision of the US Court of Appeals, which will play a pivotal role in determining the fate of its Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches in the American market.
