Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 sales halted in US amid patent dispute with Masimo

In a significant development, Apple has ceased sale of its flagship smartwatches, 'Apple Watch Series 9' and 'Apple Watch Ultra 2,' at its retail stores in United States. move comes as a response to an import ban imposed by US International Tre Commission (ITC) following a patent dispute with medical device manufacturer Masimo.

decision to pull latest smartwatches from Apple's online store last week has w extended to its physical locations. As Apple Stores are set to reopen after Christmas holiday, customers will longer have option to purchase Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2. This halt in sales is a direct consequence of ITC's ruling in October, which found that blood oxygen sensor in se watches infringes on two Masimo patents.

While case has entered a 60-day Presidential Review Period, with decision officially ending after December 25, President Joe Biden has yet to intervene or veto ITC's ruling. re remains a possibility that President Biden could choose to act during last minute of Review Period.

In response to situation, Apple has taken measures to dress impact on customers. company is set to promote 'Watch SE' at its retail stores, a model that remains available as it lacks blood oxygen sensor that is subject of patent dispute. Apple has expressed its commitment to exhausting all avenues to expedite return of Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to customers in US.

Anticipating need for furr legal action, Apple plans to file an appeal of ITC's final decision with US Court of Appeals for Federal Circuit on December 26. ongoing patent dispute revolves around blood oxygen sensor (SpO2 sensor) techlogy embedded in Apple Watch, marking a prolonged legal battle between Apple and Masimo, a prominent medical techlogy company.