The future of Apple Watch in the United States is uncertain after President Joe Biden declined to intervene in a patent dispute. The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) found that certain models of Apple Watch, including Series 6 and Apple Watch Ultra, infringe on patents held by medical device manufacturer Masimo. As a result, Apple has removed the affected models from their online store and they are no longer available in Apple retail locations.
While other retailers, such as Amazon and Best Buy, still have Apple Watch in stock, the ITC decision prevents Apple from importing more smartwatches into the country. This situation poses a significant challenge for Apple, which positions Apple Watch as a life-saving device and has achieved great success with its wearable technology.
The dispute revolves around a patent for a pulse oximeter, which utilizes light-based technology to measure blood oxygen levels. Masimo claims that Apple deliberately infringed on their patents, while Apple disagrees and is pursuing various legal and technical options to re-introduce Apple Watch to customers.
Apple may attempt software adjustments to ensure that it no longer infringes on Masimo’s patent. However, there is uncertainty as to whether the ITC will accept this potential solution or require further modifications.
It’s worth noting that the president has the power to invalidate ITC decisions, as demonstrated in 2013 when then-President Barack Obama vetoed a ban on older iPhone and iPad models after it was determined that Apple had infringed Samsung’s patents.
The outcome of the dispute will have serious implications for Apple’s smartwatch business in the United States. While the company seeks options to restore the affected models to customers, Apple Watch SE remains unaffected by the ITC decision and is still available for purchase.
Source: CNN (articleURL)
FAQ:
The source of the article is from the blog lisboatv.pt