In a surprising blow to Apple, a US court has imposed a ban on the sale of the newly launched Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 (Apple Watches) this year. Responding to the International Trade Commission’s petition, the court has completely halted the sales of these models. However, Apple has filed a plea against the ban on its latest smartwatch, requesting the court to temporarily lift the prohibition for at least two weeks to decide on the matter.

Reasons Behind the Ban:

The ban stems from a decision made in October, citing the controversial use of a blood oxygen level monitoring patent in Apple’s watches.

The US International Trade Commission (ITC) imposed the ban due to this technology, a decision that Apple vehemently opposes, considering it inaccurate.

Despite Apple’s objections, the sale of Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 was halted in the US last week.

It’s worth noting that the company plans to appeal this ban in the US Federal Court. The ITC had given until December 25 for such an appeal.

Why the Ban?

The ban resulted from a complaint filed with the ITC, accusing Apple of violating the pulse oximetry patent 9 series Apple held by medical monitoring technology company Masimo.

Based on this complaint, the ITC ordered the import and sale of Apple’s watch to be halted.

Although President Biden had the authority to veto this decision by December 25, considering public policy concerns, he chose not to, resulting in the ban on Apple’s device.

Allegations Against Apple:

Masimo accused Apple of keeping its employees on the job and stealing its technology.

In court, a jury dismissed Masimo’s allegations in May after a trial with incorrect proceedings.

It’s worth mentioning that Masimo introduced a smartwatch last year that monitors not only blood oxygen levels but also various other health aspects.

What’s Next for Apple?

Masimo’s CEO, who is in favor of resolving the dispute, aside from appealing the ban, Apple will challenge the ban in the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington.

During an appeal on December 20, the ITC rejected Apple’s bid to lift the ban temporarily.

Additionally, Apple is working on a software change to address the issue, although Masimo argues that since its patent involves hardware, a software change won’t suffice.

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