In a recent development in the ongoing patent dispute between Apple and Masimo, the US Customs and Border Protection agency has given the green light to Apple’s redesigned watches, stating that they “definitively do not contain pulse oximetry functionality.”
This revelation comes from Masimo’s filing with the Federal Circuit, shedding light on a pivotal moment in the clash between the tech giant and the medical-monitoring technology company.
The import ban, initially issued by the US International Trade Commission (ITC) on Apple’s Series 9 and Ultra 2 watches due to patent infringement concerns, seemed to pose a significant challenge for the Cupertino-based company.
However, Apple managed to secure a pause on the ban from the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit shortly after it went into effect on December 26.
According to Reuters, while the details of Apple’s redesigned watches remain undisclosed to the public, the company’s assurance to the US Customs that these new models steer clear of pulse oximetry functionality seems to have swayed the agency’s decision, issued last Friday.
The move indicates a strategic step by Apple to address the ITC’s concerns and resume the sales of its latest watch models.
Masimo, the medical technology firm accusing Apple of infringing on its patents, views Apple’s claim as a positive move towards accountability.
Apple, on the other hand, continues to assert that the redesigned watches maintain blood-oxygen reading capabilities, emphasising that Series 9 and Ultra 2 watches with such features are still available.
As the Federal Circuit deliberates on whether to uphold the ban or extend the pause, both companies await a final decision that could significantly impact the smartwatch market.
Apple’s anticipation of a year-long appeal process and its expectation of a decision on the ban’s status as early as today underscore the complexity and stakes involved in this ongoing legal battle.
