Is Apple Stop Selling the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in US- In an unexpected move that has sent shockwaves through the tech community, Apple has temporarily suspended sales for its latest offerings, the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, in the United States.
This surprising decision responds to an ongoing patent dispute around the blood oxygen sensor technology integrated into these cutting-edge smartwatches.
As the clock ticks down on the impending halt of online and retail sales, consumers are left pondering the implications and uncertainties surrounding the availability of these highly sought-after wearable devices.
Why Apple Stop Selling the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in US
In a communication provided to 9to5Mac, Apple conveyed the following message:
A Presidential Review Period is in progress regarding an order from the U.S. International Trade Commission on a technical intellectual property dispute pertaining to Apple Watch devices containing the Blood Oxygen feature. While the review period will not end until December 25, Apple is preemptively taking steps to comply should the ruling stand. This includes pausing sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 from Apple.com starting December 21, and from Apple retail locations after December 24.
Apple’s teams work tirelessly to create products and services that empower users with industry-leading health, wellness, and safety features. Apple strongly disagrees with the order and is pursuing a range of legal and technical options to ensure that Apple Watch is available to customers.
Should the order stand, Apple will continue to take all measures to return Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to customers in the U.S. as soon as possible.
Apple has stopped selling the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the United States. It is due to a patent dispute with Masimo over the blood oxygen (SpO2) sensor technology used in the watches. The International Trade Commission (ITC) has issued a ban on the importation of these models into the US.
The ban is only in effect in the US, and Apple is still selling the Series 9 and Ultra 2 in other countries. The Apple Watch SE is still available for purchase in the US.
How long the ban will last is still being determined. Apple is appealing the ITC’s decision, and the ban could be overturned. In the meantime, if you are in the US and looking to buy an Apple Watch, you must choose a different model.
Here are some additional details about the ban:
The Patent Dispute: A Closer Look
The crux lies in a recent ruling by the US International Trade Commission (US ITC), which found Apple violated two patents held by medical technology firm Masimo. These patents are intricately linked to the light-based pulse oximeter feature, a vital element powering the Apple Watch’s advanced health monitoring capabilities.
This legal setback triggered a 60-day Presidential Review Period, allowing the Biden administration to intervene and potentially veto the ban on sales and imports of the contentious smartwatches.
Apple’s Stance on the Dispute
In response to the US ITC ruling, Apple swiftly issued a statement expressing its disagreement with the order. The company emphasized its commitment to user health, safety, and wellness.
It cites its efforts to empower users with industry-leading features. Apple is committed to pursuing legal and technical avenues to ensure the availability of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to its customers.
However, faced with the uncertainty of the ongoing review period, Apple is taking pre-emptive measures by temporarily halting sales.
The Decision-Making Process: An Inside Look
According to the official statement from Apple, a Presidential Review Period is currently underway regarding the US ITC order. This period extends until December 25, and Apple is proactively taking steps to comply with the ruling should it stand.
The halt in sales commences on December 21 for online purchases and December 24 for retail locations. Apple’s decision to suspend sales reflects the company’s dedication to adhering to legal decisions and its commitment to navigating complex intellectual property disputes.
The Implications for Consumers
For consumers eyeing the latest Apple Watch models, the temporary suspension of sales poses a considerable obstacle.
With online purchases unavailable and retail locations ceasing sales, alternative outlets like Amazon and Best Buy may become the primary sources once existing stock runs out.
The need for clarity regarding when the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 will resume sales in the US adds to the frustration of eager customers.
The Legal Landscape: Challenges and Potential Solutions
The US ITC Ruling and the Presidential Review Period
The US ITC ruling, which upheld Masimo’s patent infringement claims, initiated a critical 60-day Presidential Review Period.
This period allows the sitting president to override the ITC’s decision and prevent the ban on sales and imports. However, as the clock ticks towards the December 25 deadline, the Biden administration has yet to intervene, leaving Apple in a precarious position.
Apple’s Legal Options
Suppose the Biden administration does not veto the ITC decision. In that case, Apple faces the uphill task of appealing the ruling with the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
The appeal, scheduled to be filed on December 26, represents a pivotal moment in Apple’s efforts to overturn the ban on sales and imports.
Apple could also explore alternative avenues, such as reaching a settlement and licensing agreement with Masimo or implementing changes in the firmware to turn off the features infringing on the patents.
Impact on Consumers and Third-Party Outlets
The implications for consumers are multifaceted. Those who already own previous Apple Watch models with blood oxygen sensors remain unaffected by the developments.
However, for potential buyers, the window of opportunity is closing rapidly. Third-party outlets like Amazon and Best Buy may serve as alternative sources. Still, the availability is contingent on existing stock. Once depleted, these outlets cannot restock if the ban on sales and imports remains in effect.
The Road Ahead: Apple’s Strategies and Potential Resolutions
Software Changes and Licensing Agreements
Apple has several potential strategies at its disposal. One option is to pursue changes in the firmware to turn off the features infringing on the patents. While this may be a feasible solution, the effectiveness and implications of such software modifications still need to be determined.
Additionally, Apple could negotiate with Masimo for a settlement and licensing agreement, allowing for the continued sale of the affected smartwatches.
The Role of the Appeals Court
The upcoming appeal with the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit holds significant weight in determining the fate of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2.
Filed on December 26, this legal recourse aims to challenge the US ITC ruling and seek a favourable verdict. Until the appeals court grants interim relief or announces its decision, the smartwatches will remain prohibited from sale and import.
Conclusion: Navigating Uncertainty in the Tech Industry
Apple’s decision to temporarily suspend sales of its latest smartwatches underscores the tech industry’s intricate challenges and legal complexities. As the company vigorously pursues legal remedies and explores alternative solutions, consumers are left in a state of anticipation, eagerly awaiting the resolution of the patent dispute.
The outcome of the Presidential Review Period, the subsequent legal actions, and Apple’s strategic manoeuvres will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 in the US market as the tech giant grapples with legal hurdles, consumers and enthusiasts alike find themselves caught in a waiting game, keenly observing the unfolding developments in this unprecedented chapter for Apple’s wearable technology.
