Apple is facing trouble that could have serious consequences for its flagship product, the Apple Watch. A patent dispute regarding the technology used to measure blood oxygen levels is affecting the Series 9 and Ultra 2 models of the Apple Watch. After the latest attempt to resolve the dispute was rejected by the International Trade Commission (ITC), Apple has been forced to suspend the sales of these two models just before the holiday season.
What caused the patent dispute?
The patent dispute involving the Blood Oxygen technology in Apple Watches was initiated in 2021 by medical equipment manufacturer Masimo. Apple has been ordered to cease the use of this technology in the two disputed watch models. The ITC’s decision requires Apple to stop selling these models in the United States. The ban applies to both online sales, which will be halted at 3:00 PM EST on Thursday, and the availability of the devices in physical stores, where the watches will be removed from shelves on Sunday.
Current options for purchasing an Apple Watch
It is important to note that a less advanced version of the Apple Watch will still be available for purchase in the United States after Christmas Eve. However, sales forecasts for Apple during the holiday season are not optimistic. Analyst Dan Ives from Wedbush Securities estimates that the patent dispute could potentially result in losses for Apple ranging from $300 to $400 million.
FAQ
What is Blood Oxygen on Apple Watch?
Blood Oxygen is a feature of the Apple Watch that allows users to measure their blood oxygen levels. This technology is used for monitoring the health and fitness of the watch’s users.
What are the consequences of the patent dispute for Apple?
Due to the patent dispute regarding the infringement of the Blood Oxygen feature on Apple Watch, Apple has been forced to suspend the sales of the Series 9 and Ultra 2 models in the United States. The sales ban applies to both physical stores and online sales.
Source: Apple Watch patent dispute leads to US sales suspension, The Guardian
The source of the article is from the blog regiozottegem.be