US import ban on certain Apple Watch models takes effect over patent clash
The order stemmed from a complaint made to the commission in mid-2021 accusing Apple of infringing on medical device maker company Masimo Corp’s “light-based oximetry functionality.”
The Apple Watch 9: powerful new chip, finger-thumb tap feature, faster Siri
“After careful consultations, Ambassador [Katherine] Tai decided not to reverse the … determination and the ITC’s decision became final on December 26, 2023,” the president’s executive office said in a statement on Tuesday.
Apple has been steadily ramping up fitness and health features with each generation of its Apple Watch, which dominates the smartwatch category.
In September, Apple released its Apple Watch Series 9, touting increased performance along with features such as the ability to access and log health data.
“Our teams work tirelessly to create products and services that empower users with industry-leading health, wellness and safety features,” Apple said when the ITC ban was issued.
“Masimo has wrongly attempted to use the ITC to keep a potentially life-saving product from millions of US consumers while making way for their own watch that copies Apple.”
In May, a trial of Masimo’s allegations ended in a mistrial after jurors failed to reach a unanimous verdict.
Late last year, Apple filed two patent infringement lawsuits accusing Masimo of copying Apple Watch technology.
Apple has launched an appeal.