In a recent turn of events, Apple has encountered a setback in its ongoing patent dispute, resulting in the suspension of sales for the popular Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models during the holiday shopping season. The International Trade Commission (ITC) has rejected Apple’s attempt to bypass an order issued in late October concerning the Blood Oxygen measurement technology used in these smartwatches.
This dispute originated from a patent infringement claim filed by medical technology company Masimo in 2021. As a result, a ban was imposed on Apple’s use of the technology necessary for the Blood Oxygen feature in the Series 9 and Ultra 2 models. Following the ITC ruling, Apple will proceed with its plan to halt the sales of these two watch models in the United States, unless the Biden administration overturns the decision before Christmas.
Online sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 will cease at 3 p.m. EST on Thursday, with the devices being removed from store shelves on Sunday. However, it is important to note that the less advanced version of the Apple Watch will still be available in the U.S. after Christmas Eve. Customers who have already purchased Apple Watches equipped with the Blood Oxygen feature will not be affected by the ITC order.
Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives estimates that Apple may experience a decline in holiday sales revenue by $300 million to $400 million if the patent dispute leads to the removal of these two watch models from the U.S. market in the final week of the year. This setback underscores the challenges faced by Apple in managing patent disputes and safeguarding its intellectual property.
As we await further developments, it is evident that the resolution of this dispute will have a significant impact on Apple’s revenue and market presence. The company now faces the task of reassessing its strategies and exploring potential resolutions to safeguard its interests. It is crucial for Apple to ensure the availability of its popular Apple Watch models to consumers.
FAQ
What is the Blood Oxygen feature in Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2?
The Blood Oxygen feature in these watch models measures oxygen saturation levels in the blood, providing users with valuable health-related information.
What is the significance of the International Trade Commission (ITC) ruling?
The ITC ruling rejected Apple’s attempt to bypass an order related to the technology used in the Blood Oxygen feature. As a result, Apple will have to halt the sales of the Series 9 and Ultra 2 models in the U.S., unless the decision is overturned by the Biden administration.
How will Apple’s holiday sales be affected?
Analyst Dan Ives estimates that Apple may experience a decline in holiday sales revenue by $300 million to $400 million if the patent dispute leads to the removal of the Series 9 and Ultra 2 models from the U.S. market in the final week of the year.
Sources
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– [URL of the domain – source 2]
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