The holiday season just got less merry for American Apple Watch fans. Two of the latest models, the Series 9 and Ultra 2, are facing a temporary sales ban in the US thanks to a patent dispute over blood oxygen (SpO2) technology. It’s like someone stole Santa’s sleigh right before takeoff.
Masimo, a medical equipment maker, claims Apple infringed on their patented technology used in the Watch’s blood oxygen sensor. The US International Trade Commission (ITC) agreed, issuing a ruling that tells Apple “no touchy” on these models within US borders. This Grinch-worthy move kicked in on December 21st, leaving only a narrow window to snag one under the tree.
But wait, there’s a plot twist! The Biden administration has a chance to veto the ban during a “presidential review period” that ends on Christmas Day. Apple, meanwhile, is playing both sides. They’ve preemptively pulled the watches from US stores while simultaneously vowing to fight the ruling with “legal and technical options.” So, will a last-minute presidential pardon save the watches, or will their fate remain in limbo?
This saga throws a spanner in the works for Apple’s holiday cheer. Not only does it disrupt their sales, but it casts a shadow of uncertainty over future models. Rumors of a revamped Apple Watch design were swirling, but who knows how this patent tangle will affect its development?
One thing’s for sure: this tech tussle is raising some intriguing questions. How much power do patent holders have over innovation? Should medical-grade technology be off-limits for consumer wearables? And will Apple find a way to keep their latest timepieces ticking for American wrists?
Stay tuned, folks, because this tech thriller is far from over. This could be the holiday season’s hottest gadget showdown, and we’re all waiting to see who emerges victorious – Apple, Masimo, or maybe even the President himself.