Apple Disabling Blood-Oxygen Function on Select US-Sold Premium Watches | Amid Patent Dispute

Premium Apple Watches in the US to Lose Blood-Oxygen Capability | Due to Patent Dispute

Apple Disabling Blood-Oxygen Function on Select US-Sold Premium Watches | Amid Patent Dispute

Apple Watch 9 and Ultra 2 Lose Blood Oxygen Feature Amid Patent Dispute

Patent Dispute Forces Apple's Hand : 

Apple is set to disable the blood oxygen monitoring feature on its latest smartwatches, the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, in the United States. 

This decision stems from an ongoing legal battle with health technology firm Masimo, following a patent infringement claim.

Legal Tussle and Import Ban : 

The International Trade Commission (ITC) had previously ruled that Apple's smartwatches violated Masimo's patents, resulting in a ban on sales. 

However, Apple secured a temporary reprieve from a U.S. appeals court, allowing the watches to remain available in the country until a final decision is reached.

Compliance Measures : 

In response to the legal complications, Apple has opted to comply with the ruling while preserving customer access to their products.

 The company will release versions of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the U.S. without the blood oxygen feature.

Impact on Customers : 

This move, a rarity in the tech industry, raises concerns about potential customer dissatisfaction due to the absence of the blood oxygen sensor. 

Despite the removal, Apple assures that previously purchased watches with this feature will remain unaffected.

Financial Implications and Importance of Apple Watch : 

The Apple Watch, contributing significantly to the wearables category, holds a crucial place in Apple's revenue, making nearly $40 billion in sales in 2023. 

However, Masimo's accusations of intellectual property theft have intensified the legal dispute, highlighting the significance of this product for both companies.

Masimo's Stand and Apple's Defense : 

Masimo, the plaintiff in the case, accuses Apple of hiring its employees and stealing technology for pulse oximetry devices. 

In contrast, Apple defends its product as a vital innovation and argues against unnecessary harm caused by the sales ban.

Conclusion : Navigating Legal Challenges : 

Apple's decision to disable the blood oxygen feature on specific Apple Watch models in the U.S. reflects the complex landscape of patent disputes. 

As the legal battle continues, the tech giant aims to balance compliance with maintaining its market presence, emphasizing the significance of the Apple Watch in its product portfolio.

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