A temporary lift on the ban by the US Court of Appeals has allowed Apple to resume selling the Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in its US stores following an intellectual property dispute with medical technology company Masimo. The ban, which stemmed from alleged infringement of Masimo’s intellectual property rights due to the devices’ blood oxygen sensor, was temporarily halted, permitting Apple to import and sell its latest models during the peak shopping period.
Legal Maneuvers Amid Ongoing Dispute
Apple swiftly filed an emergency motion with the US Court of Appeals after the US International Trade Commission (ITC) ruling. This move led to a temporary suspension of the ban, providing relief to the tech giant during the crucial holiday sales period. The ITC has until January 10 to respond to Apple’s request, marking this reprieve as temporary.
Challenges and Uncertainties in a Legal Battle
However, the ruling signifies a fleeting win for Apple in a prolonged legal tussle. Masimo’s allegations of technology theft and integration into smartwatches have been firmly denied by Apple, asserting the uniqueness of its technology. Prior to the ban suspension, Apple removed the smartwatches from its online and physical stores, although they remained available through various retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, Costco, and Walmart.
Administration’s Stance and Ongoing Dispute
Despite expectations for potential intervention from the US President Joe Biden’s administration, the ban was not vetoed, allowing it to take effect on December 26, notes NIX Solutions. As the legal battle persists, the resumption of sales is a momentary victory for Apple amid an ongoing dispute with Masimo, leaving the final resolution of this intellectual property conflict uncertain.