Apple Removes Blood Oxygen Feature from Latest Apple Watches Amid Legal Battle with Masimo
Apple has made the decision to remove the blood oxygen feature from its latest Apple Watches as it continues to face a legal dispute with medical device company Masimo. This move will allow Apple to import and sell the devices in the United States while the court battle ensues.
The modified versions of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 will be available for purchase starting Thursday, according to a statement from Apple. These devices were initially introduced in September of last year. When users tap on the blood oxygen icon on the modified watch, they will be directed to an explanation on Apple’s website.
The conflict between Apple and Masimo has been ongoing for several months, revolving around an intellectual property dispute. In October, the International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled that Apple’s watch sensors for blood oxygen had infringed on Masimo’s patents. This decision led to a temporary ban on the affected watches in December, although Apple managed to secure a reprieve. However, on Wednesday, an appeals court lifted the injunction that had prevented the ban from taking effect. It is important to note that the appeals court did not overturn the ITC decision, which is currently being appealed.
It is highly unusual for Apple to remove features from products that have already been released. The absence of the blood oxygen sensor may make the device less appealing to some consumers. However, Apple is taking these steps to comply with the ruling while minimizing disruption for its customers.
An Apple spokesperson told CNBC, “Pending the appeal, Apple is taking steps to comply with the ruling while ensuring customers have access to Apple Watch with limited disruption.” They further added, “These steps include introducing a version of Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 in the United States without the Blood Oxygen feature. There is no impact to Apple Watch units previously purchased that include the Blood Oxygen feature.”
Apple remains hopeful that the appeals court will eventually reverse the decision, allowing the unmodified watches to be sold once again. However, this process could take more than a year to reach a resolution.
In fiscal 2023, Apple reported impressive sales of wearables, including headphones, totaling $39.8 billion. The removal of the blood oxygen feature may impact the attractiveness of the Apple Watch to some consumers, but it remains to be seen how significant this impact will be.
This legal battle between Apple and Masimo highlights the complexities and challenges faced by tech giants in navigating intellectual property disputes. As the appeal process continues, both companies will be closely watching for any developments that could sway the outcome in their favor.
Watch: Apple again banned from selling watches in U.S. with blood oxygen sensor
