The Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 are now unavailable to those hoping to purchase one for themselves in the US. These smartwatches are no longer available in all Apple US stores in compliance with the ITC’s ruling on a patent dispute. This dispute is between health technology and consumer electronics companies Masimo and Apple and has been lingering for quite a while.
Masimo argued that Apple infringed on one of their medical technology patents for their new smartwatches. After taking this argument up with the ITC, Apple seems to be in a bad light, as the ruling favours Masimo. The ruling now places a ban on the sale of the relatively new Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 entries in stores in the US.
Apple took to its website earlier today to take down both watches, making them unavailable for purchase. All units of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 sold from their launch till now are not under the reach of this ban. Only watches that are still available for sale in Apple stores (online or offline) in the US will feel the effect of the ITC’s ruling in this case.
These watches available on Amazon and other Apple retail partners will still sell. However, Apple will not be able to add more supplies to what is already available after December 25. So netizens and Apple fans residing in the US might see some rush among buyers hoping to grab an Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 for themselves before all stocks run out.
Well, all hope might not be lost for Apple, as this sale ban by the ITC can be tossed to the side. Yes, the decision to uphold or revoke this ban lies in the power of the US President, Joe Biden. A few years ago, he upheld the decision of the ITC on a similar ruling, so it’s safe to say that Apple’s fate hangs in the balance.