The United States Customs and Border Protection has approved Apple’s proposal to redesign the operation of its smart watches in order to avoid a ban on some Apple Watch models, documents filed in federal court on Monday reveal. The redesign will eliminate the pulse oximeter functionality of the watches, a feature that allows users to closely monitor their health. This approval came after Irvine, California-based technology company Masimo sued Apple for patent infringement, leading to a temporary ban on some Apple Watch models.
The US International Trade Commission initially prevented the company from importing the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, among other newer models, due to the patent infringement, causing the ban to go into effect on December 26. However, a federal appeals court temporarily blocked the measure on December 27. Apple stated that it expects the appeals court to rule on its motion to block the ban as the process unfolds this week. The company has also expressed its “strong disagreement” with the ban and pledged to “take all measures” to bring the Apple Watch back to US customers soon.
Ultimately, the dispute between Apple and Masimo has not only caused issues with importing the watches but also threatened to undermine Apple’s image as a company that offers life-saving devices. Nonetheless, sales of the affected models have resumed after the court’s temporary block, demonstrating the company’s commitment to resolving the situation.
Apple’s successful redesign proposal marks an important development, as it allows the company to continue importing the most advanced watches into the United States. However, Apple has not yet provided any official comments regarding the approval of its redesign or the ongoing legal battle with Masimo.