Apple's sales ban to continue

The US Federal Court of Appeals has lifted the preliminary injunction that had prevented the sales ban on certain Apple watches from taking effect due to a patent dispute with health technology company Masimo, for the duration of the appeal process.

Consequently, the sales ban, which had been temporarily halted, will resume starting tomorrow.

ABOUT THE BAN IMPOSED ON SMARTWATCHES

The US International Trade Commission, which handles international trade disputes, ruled last October that the blood oxygen level measurement feature of the Apple Watch infringed on Masimo's pulse oximeter patents.

The commission's decision was not vetoed by the administration of US President Joe Biden. With the Biden administration failing to veto the decision by the December 25, 2023 deadline, the sale of Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Watch Series 9 was banned in the US.

Apple had appealed the decision by applying to the Federal Court of Appeals. Requesting a stay of the decision, Apple had asked to wait for the assessment of the US Customs and Border Protection, which is set to decide by January 12 whether the redesigned versions of the watches infringe on Masimo's patents.

Last week, the US Customs and Border Protection decided that the redesigned Apple watch model, which does not contain the technology subject to Masimo's pulse oximeter patent, falls outside the scope of the ban.

News Source: AA