How Apple Watch ban in US impacts users and buyers in India, BusinessToday
The Apple Watch 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 are officially off sale from Apple due to a blood oxygen monitoring patent dispute, as reported by Richard Priday. The devices are listed as “Currently Unavailable” on the Apple website, with a notice stating that, starting December 24, 2023, Apple will no longer sell units in the U.S. capable of measuring blood oxygen. This ban extends to special editions like the Apple Watch Nike and Apple Watch Hermès, excluding the Apple Watch SE 2 without a SpO2 monitor.
The ban, imposed by the U.S. International Trade Commission, arises from patent violations against Masimo. Despite unsuccessful attempts to delay the ban, Apple faces sales cessation until an agreement is reached. Potential solutions include creating new watch models without the contested technology, implementing a software patch, or settling with Masimo financially.
Additionally, the ban impacts hardware repairs for Apple Watch 6 and later models, limiting out-of-warranty repair options. Users are advised to retain broken watches until the ban resolves. Refunds, not exchanges, are currently offered in-store, affecting watch purchases. Despite these challenges, other smartwatch options exist, and hopes are high for a prompt resolution between Apple and Masimo.
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