Apple Watch might get banned due to Patent Dispute with Masimo

The US International Trade Commission (ITC) has stated that the Apple Watch may be banned from entering the country because it uses technology held by Masimo, a California-based business. This is due to the ITC’s agreement with a previous decision reached in January. This restriction might go into effect in roughly two months, but President Joe Biden has the authority to reverse it.

The debate is around Masimo’s use of light to determine the amount of oxygen in your blood. Although the judgement does not specify which Apple Watches are affected, the Apple Watch Series 6, which analyses blood oxygen levels, may be one of them.

Masimo alleges that Apple approached them about collaborating or being acquired by Apple in 2013, but that Apple subsequently copied their technology and hired several of their engineers. Apple, on the other hand, claims that they spoke with numerous firms in the medical technology industry and chose not to partner with Masimo because they were not focused on producing products for ordinary people.

We don’t know if the Apple Watch will truly be prohibited. To prevent a ban, Apple can request a different verdict or try to reach an arrangement with Masimo. Academic institutions and members of Congress are among those who support the ban.