thehealthtransformation.foundation
BigTechsHealthCareInstitute
Joaquim Cardoso MSc
January 26, 2024
This executive summary is based on the article “Apple begins selling pulse ox-free Apple Watches after reinstated import ban”, published by Fierce Biotech and written by Andrea Park on January 18, 2024.
What is the message?
Apple has responded to a reinstated import ban by introducing modified versions of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the U.S.
These alterations comply with the ban by omitting the blood oxygen measurement feature, a move aimed at sustaining Apple Watch sales during the appeal process.
ONE PAGE SUMMARY
What are the key points?
Import Ban Impact: The U.S. International Trade Commission imposed an import ban last fall, alleging patent infringement by Apple’s blood oxygen measurement technology. The ban affects new sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the U.S.
Redesigned Versions: Apple initiated sales of redesigned Apple Watches without the blood oxygen feature to navigate the import ban. Previously sold Series 9 and Ultra 2 devices are unaffected, still retaining access to the blood oxygen feature.
Limited Geographical Scope: The changes are exclusive to the U.S. market, with Apple maintaining the blood oxygen functionality for existing devices outside the affected models.
Mitigating Disruption: Apple aims to minimize disruption to Apple Watch sales during the ongoing appeal process, estimated to last a year or more. The company contends that enforcing the ban could cause irreparable harm to its smartwatch sales and reputation.
Legal Battle with Masimo: The ban resulted from a patent infringement claim by Masimo, asserting that Apple’s blood oxygen feature infringes on its patented pulse oximetry technology. Apple has contested these claims, winning some appeals and accusing Masimo of pursuing the case to pave the way for its own health-tracking smartwatch.
What are the key statistics?
The appeal process for the import ban is estimated to take a year or more.
Apple previously won an emergency stay of the ban, but the recent denial allows the ban to take effect again.
What are the key examples?
Apple’s redesigned watches omit the blood oxygen feature, and the associated app redirects users to the Health app on connected iPhones.
Masimo’s CEO views the lifting of the temporary stay as a victory for the American patent system, emphasizing the importance of respecting intellectual rights.
Conclusion
Apple’s introduction of redesigned Apple Watches addresses the challenges posed by the import ban, reflecting its commitment to sustaining sales and navigating legal battles.
The company’s ongoing appeal and the legal dispute with Masimo underscore the complexity of intellectual property issues in the competitive smartwatch market.
To read the original publication, click here.
