With the sales and import bans on hold, Apple has resumed sales of the Series 9 and Ultra 2.
The article reports that Apple has resumed sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 after a federal appeals court temporarily paused the sales and import ban imposed on both devices. The ban resulted from Apple’s alleged violation of patents held by medical device maker Masimo. The court decision allows Apple to sell the watches while awaiting a ruling on proposed changes to avoid patent issues. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection is set to make a decision on these changes by January 12th. If necessary, the court may further delay the ban during the patent dispute resolution, potentially extending the ban for months.
Apple withdrew the Series 9 and Ultra 2 from online and physical stores ahead of the ban, which took effect on December 26th. The ban specifically covers devices equipped with a blood oxygen saturation sensor, a feature present in Apple’s flagship watches since late 2020. Third-party retailers were temporarily allowed to sell existing stock during the ban, although the import restrictions would eventually hinder them from acquiring more units. Apple’s spokesperson expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, highlighting the company’s commitment to developing technology for health, wellness, and safety features in its watches.
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