Title: Apple Halts Sales of Series 9 Smartwatch Amid Patent Dispute
Apple has announced that it will be halting sales of its Series 9 smartwatch following a ruling from the International Trade Commission (ITC) in a patent dispute with med tech firm, Masimo. The dispute revolves around the blood sensor monitor on the latest flagship smartwatch.
The halt in sales will go into effect through the online Apple Store on December 21, with retail locations ceasing sales on December 24 – just ahead of the holiday season. This decision comes in response to the ITC ruling, with a Presidential Review Period currently in progress, expected to end on December 25.
In a statement to TechCrunch, Apple confirmed the move and stated that it strongly disagrees with the order, and will be pursuing legal and technical options to ensure that the Apple Watch is available to customers. The company also plans to appeal the ruling, which it believes to be erroneous on the ITC’s part.
The patent dispute between Apple and Masimo began in June 2021, with Masimo initially focusing on technology introduced with the Series 6 smartwatch. The primary issue revolves around pulse oximetry, which uses an optical sensor to detect blood flow.
Apple has accused Masimo of attempting to use the ITC to keep a potentially lifesaving product from millions of U.S. consumers, while making way for their own watch that copies Apple. Masimo, on the other hand, has accused Apple of hiring its employees and infringing on its patents.
Apple has stated that it will continue to take all measures to return the Series 9 smartwatch to customers in the U.S. as soon as possible, should the ITC ruling stand. The company’s statement also emphasized its commitment to creating products with industry-leading health, wellness, and safety features.
The dispute between Apple and Masimo highlights the complexities and competition within the tech industry, especially when it comes to innovative health and wellness technologies. As the legal battle continues, customers and industry observers will closely monitor the outcome and potential impact on the availability of the Apple Series 9 smartwatch.