The highly anticipated Apple Watch 9, the latest in the Apple gadget lineup and a pinnacle of innovation in smartwatches, is facing an unexpected hurdle in the United States, affecting the Apple Watch sale. Apple’s recent decision to halt the sale of its Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches within the country is due to an ongoing patent dispute with medical technology giant Masimo. The recent ITC ruling has left US Apple enthusiasts disappointed, eagerly awaiting a swift resolution to the situation.
The Patent Dispute and ITC Ruling
At the heart of the protracted patent battle between Apple and Masimo is the Watch’s SpO2 sensor. Masimo, known for its pulse oximeter, has filed two distinct lawsuits. It claims that Apple infringed on its pulse oximetry technology patents. In October, the ITC ruled to ban imports of the Series 9 and Ultra 2. This limits their availability in the US market and poses a significant challenge to the Apple Watch sale. Apple is challenging this ruling, vehemently opposing it and pursuing legal and technical measures to continue offering the device.
Apple Watch 9: Global Availability and Future Measures
The ITC ban affects only US sales, allowing international customers to purchase the watches without restrictions. President Joe Biden has the power to veto the ban during its presidential review period. The Apple Watch 9 faces challenges. Hence, the Apple Watch 8 remains a viable option for US consumers and for those seeking more affordability. Furthermore, exploring the cheapest Apple Watch models could be beneficial. Apple is proactively refining the Watch’s software to improve its ability to measure and report oxygen saturation, demonstrating the company’s commitment to providing the best user experience despite the patent dispute.
In conclusion, as Apple navigates this patent dispute, fans remain hopeful for a swift resolution that could reignite the Apple Watch sale in the US, particularly for the eagerly awaited device. The Apple Watch 9, initially celebrated for its advanced features, now faces a temporary setback in the US market. Apple fans are eagerly awaiting a resolution, hoping that the latest Apple Watch 9 will soon be available to US consumers.
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