In response to a complaint filed by Masimo, the United States International Trade Commission (ITC) has imposed an import ban on certain models of the Apple Watch. Masimo claims that the blood oxygen level monitoring feature of the Apple Watch infringes on their patents, resulting in the import ban for the affected models. President Biden had 60 days to object to the ban, but decided not to, resulting in its enforcement.
In 2020, Masimo accused Apple of stealing trade secrets and patent infringement, seeking to ban the sale of Apple Watch in the United States. A year later, Masimo again filed patent infringement claims against Apple. The allegations arose after Apple attempted to collaborate with Masimo, a company that supplies technology for various types of medical equipment. Masimo’s CEO believed that Apple had hidden intentions and intended to exploit its employees, citing the recruitment of key personnel with access to confidential information and trade secrets.
Recently, the United States International Trade Commission ruled that Apple had infringed on one of Masimo’s patents related to light-based pulse oximetry while ruling in favor of Apple on nine other patents. The ruling specifically applies to Apple Watches with the disputed light-based pulse oximetry technology, but does not specify the affected models.
As a result of the ban, Apple has temporarily halted the sale of Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 models. However, customers can still purchase these models from other retailers until supplies run out. The Apple Watch SE 2, which does not have the blood oxygen level monitoring feature, remains unaffected and can be purchased from Apple and other stores.
Apple is taking action in response to the ban and has appealed the ruling to the International Trade Commission. The company has also requested a temporary stay on the import ban while working on redesigned versions of the affected models. Additionally, Apple is considering software modifications that would allow the watches to function without infringing on Masimo’s patents. However, Masimo has expressed skepticism, stating that the patent applies to the hardware, making software workarounds insufficient.
If all else fails, Apple may try to resolve the dispute through a settlement with Masimo. Masimo’s CEO has expressed a willingness to reach a settlement and end the legal battle.
FAQ:
Q: What are the accusations against Apple?
A: Masimo accuses Apple of infringing on its patents related to the blood oxygen level monitoring feature on the Apple Watch.
Q: Which models of Apple Watch are subject to the import ban?
A: The specific models subject to the ban have not been specified, but the Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 have been temporarily withdrawn from sale.
Q: Can the banned models of Apple Watch still be purchased?
A: Yes, customers can still purchase these models from other retailers until supplies run out.
Definitions:
– Patent: a legal document granting an individual or company exclusive rights to use an invention for a specified period of time.
– Pulse oximetry: a method of measuring the oxygen level in the blood.
– Patent infringement: the act of using a patented technology, product, or process without the permission of the patent owner.
The source of the article is from the blog toumai.es