New York: Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, has clarified that the tech giant has no plans to license the blood oxygen detection technology from healthcare company Masimo, a move that could have lifted the Apple Watch import ban. In an interview with CNBC, Cook stated that Apple is focused on appealing the decision. He emphasized that the Apple Watch remains a compelling product even without the blood oxygen sensor, providing several other reasons for consumers to choose the device. While the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 are still available for purchase in the US, the blood oxygen sensor in these models has been disabled through software updates.
For Apple watch models sold before January 18, 2024, the date of the import ban, the blood oxygen detection feature remains functional. Apple Insider reports that the company might consider reinstating the blood oxygen detection function through a software update if the import ban is lifted. Meanwhile, Masimo has expressed its willingness to settle with Apple.
Sales of the Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 resumed last month without the blood oxygen features due to the ongoing patent infringement dispute. A company spokesperson stated, “Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 without the Blood Oxygen feature will become available from apple.com starting 6 am PT on January 18, and from Apple Stores starting January 18. Apple’s appeal is ongoing, and we believe the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit should reverse the USITC’s decision. We strongly disagree with the USITC decision and resulting orders.”
The company emphasized, “Pending the appeal, Apple is taking steps to comply with the ruling while ensuring customers have access to Apple Watch with limited disruption.”
The import ban in the US was imposed after the International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled that Apple’s blood oxygen sensors violated patents owned by Masimo.
