Following a patent dispute with California-based company Masimo, Apple has officially removed the Apple Watch 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 from its online store. The dispute involved the function of monitoring blood oxygen levels, which was deemed to be a patent infringement by Masimo. If you visit the Apple website, you will notice that these two models of the Apple Watch are now marked as “Currently unavailable.” Information at the bottom of the individual product pages states that Apple will no longer sell Apple Watches in the USA that allow blood oxygen level measurement after December 24, 2023.
This ban applies not only to the standard Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 9 models but also to special editions like the Apple Watch Nike and Apple Watch Hermès. However, the Apple Watch SE 2, which does not have a blood oxygen monitor, is still available for purchase.
From December 24, the ban will also extend to in-store purchases and will be legally enforced starting from December 26. While external sales may still be possible, access to goods in retailers such as Amazon and Best Buy may be limited.
It is important to note that this ban only applies to the United States. Customers in other regions can still purchase Apple Watches affected by this ban without any issues.
Currently, Apple is prohibited from selling Apple Watches with blood oxygen monitoring according to the order of the US International Trade Commission. Apple’s attempt to delay the ban until the appeal is resolved has failed, which means that sales remain suspended until an agreement is reached with Masimo. Potential solutions may include producing new models of the Apple Watch without infringing technology, updating the software to deactivate blood oxygen monitoring, or a financial resolution.
Additionally, the ban also affects customers seeking repairs for their existing Apple Watches. Reports suggest that Apple does not offer out-of-warranty repairs for Apple Watch models 6 and newer due to the complex technology involved. However, software-related issues are not affected by the ban. Apple advises customers to hold onto their damaged watches until the ban is resolved. Alternatively, individuals with valid warranties or AppleCare can still receive assistance as usual.
Exchanging Apple Watches in physical retail stores is currently not possible, but refunds can be obtained. However, it is important to choose the correct size and color for straps and accessories from the beginning.
While the Apple Watch 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 may have been popular choices, there are many other smartwatches available for those in need of a new wearable device. Hopefully, a swift agreement can be reached between Apple and Masimo, allowing users to purchase their preferred Apple Watch models without any legal obstacles.
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The source of the article is from the blog dk1250.com