Apple and Masimo Back in Court Over Apple Watch Import Ban Appeal
Apple returned to court today in a high-stakes appeal aiming to reverse a U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) ruling that banned Apple Watch models featuring blood-oxygen sensors. The hearing took place before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
A Recap of the Dispute
The legal battle began in 2021 when medical tech firm Masimo accused Apple of infringing on patents related to blood-oxygen measurement technology. In 2023, the ITC sided with Masimo, resulting in an import ban on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2—two models equipped with the disputed sensor.
Apple temporarily paused sales in the U.S., then resumed them after a stay was granted. However, in January 2024, the ban was reinstated, forcing Apple to disable the blood-oxygen feature on new U.S. models.
Apple’s Argument
During today’s hearing, Apple attorney Joseph Mueller told the three-judge panel that the ban unfairly harms consumers by removing a key health feature from their devices. He argued that Masimo’s infringement claims were weak, highlighting that Masimo’s own wearable device with similar technology wasn’t released until 2022—two years after Apple debuted its version.
Apple is seeking a full reversal of the ITC’s decision, which would allow it to restore the blood-oxygen feature for U.S. customers and protect future product offerings.
What’s Next?
The court’s decision could have lasting implications not only for Apple’s wearables but for the broader debate around patent enforcement in consumer tech. A ruling is expected in the coming months.