Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Now Available. American Consumers Rejoice as Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Return to Shelves. In an exciting turn of events, the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 are once again available for purchase in the United States. This development follows a court’s decision to suspend the International Trade Commission’s (ITC) ban on imports of these models into the country.
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Background of the Ban
The Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 faced a ban due to a patent infringement claim by Masimo, a company specializing in medical technologies. The claim centered around the blood oxygen level (SpO2) sensor technology used in these watches. As a result of the ruling by the ITC, Apple had to halt the sales of these models in its physical and online stores. The ban took effect on December 26, leaving many consumers disappointed and Apple in a challenging position.
The Legal Twist
In response to the ban, Apple filed an urgent appeal against the ITC’s decision. The legal battle was critical for Apple, as the Biden administration chose not to intervene and lift the ban. Apple’s legal team worked tirelessly to present their case, leading to a significant victory. The Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit responded favorably to Apple’s plea, suspending the ban temporarily. This suspension allows Apple to resume sales while the court considers a more extended pause during the appeal process.
Update: The Apple Watch Makes a Comeback
With the legal window opened by the federal court of appeal, Apple wasted no time. The tech giant announced that the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 would be available again in its online store starting December 28, with physical stores following suit on December 30. This swift action demonstrates Apple’s commitment to providing its cutting-edge technology to consumers without delay.
Why Were the Watches Banned?
The initial ban stemmed from accusations by Masimo and Cercacor Laboratories. The companies alleged that Apple infringed on their patented technology for tracking blood oxygen levels. This led to an order from the ITC (United States International Trade Commission) on October 26, banning the sale of these specific Apple Watch models. Masimo’s stance was clear, emphasizing the importance of even the most influential companies adhering to patent laws. Apple, in turn, had filed lawsuits against Masimo, accusing them of infringing patents with their smartwatch, further complicating the legal landscape.
Looking Forward
As the situation unfolds, consumers, tech enthusiasts, and industry experts are closely watching the legal proceedings. The return of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 is a welcome relief for many, but the overarching legal battle over patent rights continues to loom. Apple’s ability to navigate these challenges and its commitment to innovation and legal compliance will remain under scrutiny.
The temporary lifting of the ban on Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 brings a celebratory mood to American consumers and Apple enthusiasts worldwide. While the future of these devices hinges on the ongoing legal battles, for now, they are back, and it’s time for users to enjoy the cutting-edge features and sleek design that define the Apple Watch experience.
