ITC Upholds Ruling that Apple Watch Infringes on Masimo’s Patents
The US International Trade Commission (ITC) has confirmed a judge’s previous ruling that Apple’s Apple Watch has violated patents owned by medical technology company Masimo. As a result, there is a potential import ban on certain Apple Watch models, although Apple has various options to avoid such a ban.
The legal dispute between Apple and Masimo began in 2021 when Masimo accused Apple of infringing upon its patents related to light-based blood-oxygen monitoring. The ITC’s recent decision affirms that Apple has indeed violated Masimo’s patents but does not automatically lead to an import ban. Apple has the opportunity to explore legal and negotiation avenues to avoid such a ban.
This ongoing legal battle highlights the significance of intellectual property rights in the rapidly evolving technology and healthcare sectors. Both the tech and medical industries are closely watching the outcome of this case.
It is important to note that Masimo’s legal action primarily focuses on the Apple Watch Series 6, a model that Apple discontinued in 2021. The potential impact of an import ban on Apple’s latest flagship wearables remains uncertain. Earlier this year, a federal jury attempted to resolve the case, but it resulted in a mistrial.
The next phase of this case brings it to the White House, where the Biden administration has the authority to veto the import ban within a 60-day period based on policy considerations. However, it is worth mentioning that past US Presidents have rarely exercised this veto option.
If the import ban is not vetoed, Apple still has the option to appeal the decision to the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit after the White House’s review period. Additionally, Apple could pursue alternatives such as reaching a settlement with Masimo or implementing software updates that work around the patented technology.
Masimo sees this situation as a victory for the underdog against a corporate giant. Masimo’s CEO, Joe Kiani, emphasized the importance of the USITC’s ruling, stating that even the largest corporation must abide by the rule of law.
In response to the ITC’s decision, Apple argues that Masimo has used the ITC to hinder a potentially life-saving product and promote its own lineup. An Apple spokesperson mentioned that Masimo is preparing to introduce a watch that mimics Apple’s technology. The recent ruling does not have an immediate impact on Apple Watch sales, and Apple is determined to appeal the decision, believing that it should be overturned.
Overall, this patent dispute and potential import ban raise significant questions about the protection of intellectual property rights in the technology and healthcare sectors. As Apple continues to navigate this legal battle, the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the industry and the future of innovation.