As of Tuesday, a United States import ban on specific Apple smartwatch models has taken effect, following the decision of the Biden administration not to veto a ruling on patent infringements by the United States International Trade Commission (ITC).
In October, the ITC had determined to ban certain Apple Watch models due to patent issues related to technology for detecting blood-oxygen levels.
Apple has disputed the ITC’s finding, asserting that it was erroneous and should be overturned.
However, last week, the company temporarily halted the sales of Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 in the United States.
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The ITC’s decision was based on a complaint filed in mid-2021, accusing Apple of infringing on the “light-based oximetry functionality” of medical device maker Masimo Corp.
In a statement on Tuesday, the president’s executive office announced that, after careful consultations, Ambassador Katherine Tai chose not to reverse the ITC’s determination, making the decision final on December 26, 2023.
Apple, a leader in the smartwatch category, has consistently enhanced fitness and health features with each new Apple Watch generation.
In response to the ban, Apple expressed its commitment to creating products with industry-leading health, wellness, and safety features, accusing Masimo of attempting to hinder a potentially life-saving product for U.S. consumers while promoting their own watch that allegedly copies Apple.
A trial in May regarding Masimo’s allegations against Apple ended in a mistrial, and late last year, Apple filed two patent infringement lawsuits against Masimo, claiming the copying of Apple Watch technology.
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