Apple is gearing up for potential changes to its watch lineup based on the outcome of an ongoing patent dispute. The tech giant is considering the removal of the blood-oxygen sensor from its internet-connected watches, contingent on a court ruling that may grant Apple more flexibility in challenging the current restrictions on the technology’s use.
US Customs Approval for Watch Redesign
In response to a patent claim filed by Masimo, a Southern California company, Apple has gained approval from the US Customs and Border Protection for a potential redesign of two watch models – the Series 9 and Ultra 2. The proposed modification would involve excluding the blood-oxygen sensor. Details on how Apple intends to execute this change remain undisclosed, with industry analysts speculating that it could be implemented through a software update.
Legal Battles and Temporary Sales Halt
Masimo secured a favorable ruling from the US International Trade Commission in October, leading Apple to temporarily suspend sales of the Apple Watch models featuring the blood-oxygen sensor just ahead of the holiday season. Apple swiftly appealed the decision, resulting in an order allowing the watches back into stores while the appeal undergoes review. The US Court of Appeals in Washington is set to decide on an extension of the stay later this month.
Dueling Narratives: Masimo vs. Apple
The ongoing legal dispute between Masimo and Apple revolves around conflicting narratives regarding the technology in question. Masimo claims to be a pioneer in blood-oxygen sensors for wearables, alleging that Apple began poaching its employees as early as 2013. Apple, however, maintains that Masimo’s pulse oximeter technology, which is mainly used by professionals treating millions of patients annually, has limited availability to consumers.
The Future Landscape: Apple’s Health-Monitoring Efforts
The appeals process is expected to span at least a year, necessitating an extended stay for Apple to continue marketing the watches with blood-oxygen sensors. The company positions these devices as health-monitoring tools, constituting a significant portion of its smartwatch shipments, contributing to an estimated $18 billion in annual sales – about 5% of Apple’s total revenue. As the legal saga unfolds, Apple remains silent on its plans, awaiting the court’s decision on the potential removal of the blood-oxygen sensor.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Engadget
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