The recent US ban on Apple Watch imports will continue even after the Biden administration takes office. refused to exercise the right of veto Previous rulings by the International Trade Commission. The ITC’s ruling takes effect today.
The company previously halted sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in anticipation of the ban, suspending online sales on December 21 and in-store sales three days later.
A statement released this morning by the Office of the United States Trade Representative said: [Katherine] Mr. Tai decided not to overturn the ITC’s decision, and the ITC’s decision became final on December 26, 2023. ”
Apple firmly refuted the two patent infringement claims behind the ban by health tech company Masimo. In a statement provided to TechCrunch, Apple promised to continue fighting this decision while touting the device’s healthcare features.
At Apple, we’re passionate about creating products and services that have a meaningful impact on people’s lives. That’s why our teams (clinical, design, and engineering) spend years developing scientifically validated health, fitness, and wellness features for Apple Watch that millions of people around the world benefit from. We are inspired by the tremendous benefits people are receiving from this product. We strongly disagree with the USITC’s decision and the resulting exclusion order, and are taking every step to return Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to U.S. customers as quickly as possible.
Apple also appealed this decision to the Federal Circuit. This decision stems from the light-based pulse oximetry sensor introduced in the Watch Series 6 in 2020. Masimo also accuses Apple of poaching employees to implement the technology in its smartwatch products.
In a statement released shortly after the ITC decision in October, Masimo founder and CEO Joe Chiani said: This important decision is a strong demonstration of our commitment to holding Apple accountable for its misappropriation of our patented technology. ”
Kiani has continued to attack the company in a series of interviews in recent weeks.
Although currently banned in the US, the Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 are still available for purchase outside the country. Meanwhile, the Watch SE continues to be sold in the US as more budget-oriented options don’t utilize the same sensor technology.
Source: techcrunch.com
