As the year comes to a close, Apple Halts Sales of Latest Watches in the US market. The sales of the latest Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 has been ceases. The move is a result of an ongoing legal clash with health tech company Masimo concerning the blood oxygen detection feature in these watches.
Legal Tussle Overview
The US International Trade Commission (USITC) issued an order preventing the import and sale of the Series 9 and Ultra 2 following a January ruling that found Apple in violation of Masimo’s patents related to blood oxygen sensing technology. Despite Apple’s efforts to reverse the decision, the order became final on December 26, leaving the tech giant with no choice but to comply.
Impact on Apple’s Business
The Apple Watch holds a pivotal position in Apple’s product lineup, contributing significantly to its wearables, home, and accessories business. The legal hindrance comes at a crucial time, affecting holiday sales during a period where smartwatches are among the top-selling products.
Sales Suspension and Apple’s Response
Apple proactively paused online sales on December 21 and in-store sales on December 24, anticipating the finalization of the order. The suspension applies exclusively to sales through Apple in the US, while other retailers such as Best Buy and Walmart confirm their intention to continue selling the affected watches.
Ongoing Appeals and Proposed Redesign
Apple is not conceding defeat; the company has lodged an appeal with the Federal Circuit and submitted a redesigned version of the watches for US Customs approval. The proposed changes aim to address the patent infringement concerns raised by Masimo.
Available Alternatives and Consumer Advice
While the Series 9 and Ultra 2 face sales restrictions, other Apple Watch models remain unaffected, including the Apple Watch SE. Consumers looking for alternatives within the Apple ecosystem can consider the Apple Watch SE, priced at $249. It lacks certain advanced health tracking features but provides essential notifications for heart rate irregularities.
For those willing to explore options beyond Apple, cross-compatible choices like the Fitbit Versa 4 and Garmin Venu 3 offer versatility across iPhone and Android devices. Additionally, individuals specifically interested in monitoring blood oxygen levels from home may consider standalone pulse oximeters, recommended by health experts for more accurate readings.
What Lies Ahead
Apple is actively pursuing legal and technical avenues to resume sales of the Series 9 and Ultra 2. The US Customs office will decide on January 12 whether Apple’s proposed redesigns comply with Masimo’s patents. Apple has not disclosed specific details about the redesign but has hinted at a software change that alters how the watches monitor and display blood oxygen levels.
In the midst of this legal entanglement, consumers seeking the Series 9 or Ultra 2 are advised to explore third-party retailers as long as stocks last. The outcome of Apple’s proposed redesign and the subsequent decision by the US Customs office on January 12 will likely shed light on the future availability of these watches.
Stay tuned for updates as this story evolves, and Apple navigates through the legal intricacies to bring its latest watches back into the hands of eager consumers.
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