In the patent dispute between Apple and the medical technology company Masimo, there are two important new developments. Both concern the blood oxygen function of the Apple Watch and have direct implications for sales and usage in the USA.
The conflict revolves around whether Apple's technology infringes on Masimo's patents. This is particularly relevant for Apple because health features are a core component of the Apple Watch. Recent rulings demonstrate how Apple is adapting its technology while simultaneously pursuing legal action against restrictions.
Revised function: No patent infringement at this time
ITC Administrative Judge Monica Bhattacharyya has ruled in a preliminary decision that the revised blood oxygen function of the Apple Watch does not infringe any patents held by Masimo.
The ITC initiated the proceedings in November, three months after Apple launched the new version in the US. The crucial difference: The measurement is still started on the Apple Watch, but the analysis is primarily performed on the iPhone. The results are only visible there, no longer directly on the watch.
According to the judge, this amendment is decisive in determining that there is no direct patent infringement. However, the decision is not yet final and will be reviewed by the entire ITC commission.
Apple welcomed the assessment, noting that many of Masimo's lawsuits had been dismissed in recent years. At the same time, the company continues to emphasize its focus on innovation in the healthcare sector (via 9to5mac).
Confirmation of the prohibition of the original function
In parallel, the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit upheld the earlier ITC decision from 2023.
This led to Apple temporarily halting sales of the Apple Watch in the US in December 2023. Sales resumed shortly afterward, but without the original blood oxygen monitoring feature.
With the current decision, this restriction remains in place:
- The original version of the feature remains banned in the US.
- Apple is only allowed to offer the revised version.
Apple disagrees with this decision and is considering further legal action.
Impact on users
For users in the US, nothing is changing at this time. The available, revised blood oxygen function can still be used. (Note: This dispute only concerns the US market; users in other countries are not affected!)
Open outcome in the Apple-Masimo dispute
The dispute between Apple and Masimo remains unresolved. The revised feature has been provisionally deemed safe, while the original version remains prohibited. A final decision from the ITC is still pending. (Image: Shutterstock / Wirestock Creators)
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