Apple recently announced that it will cease the sales of specific Apple Watch models due to a patent dispute concerning the devices' blood oxygen monitoring technology. The company stated that it is taking preemptive measures in anticipation of compliance with a potential ruling by the U.S. International Trade Commission regarding the disputed patent. This move will impact the availability of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, with sales on Apple's website scheduled to halt on December 21 and in retail stores post-December 24.
The legal disagreement originated from the blood oxygen feature incorporated in Apple Watch models that enables users to monitor their blood oxygen levels, which can be critical in identifying health issues. The Ohio-based Cleveland Clinic highlighted the significance of monitoring blood oxygen as low levels could indicate serious health complications. The dispute escalated after the ITC determined that Apple had infringed on Masimo's blood oxygen technology and directed Apple to stop importing devices with the disputed feature, prompting the company to take action by pausing sales while a presidential panel reviews the ITC's directive until December 25.
Apple has expressed its disagreement with the ruling and is actively exploring legal and technical strategies to ensure continued availability of the Apple Watch to its customers. The company is pursuing various options to address the situation, signaling its commitment to resolving the patent conflict and ensuring the uninterrupted availability of its popular wearable technology to consumers.