Apple Inc is currently working on rectifying a possible ban of its smartwatches in the US by making software alterations and exploring other potential solutions. The company’s engineers are specifically focusing on modifying the algorithms used in the devices to measure a user’s blood oxygen level, a feature that Masimo Corp claims infringes on its patents. These changes would affect how the technology determines oxygen saturation and presents the related data to users.
This engineering effort is particularly crucial for Apple, as the impending ban could significantly impact the company’s revenue during the holiday season. The ban is scheduled to take effect on Christmas day, unless the White House intervenes with a last-minute veto of the decision made by the International Trade Commission.
In the event that the ban is upheld, Apple is considering various legal and technical options. The company has already initiated preparations for the change in its stores, pulling the affected models from its retail outlets before the ban comes into effect. Apple intends to stop selling the prohibited watches on its website and in stores by December 24.
While Apple is optimistic that software changes may be sufficient to address the issue, Masimo insists that a hardware overhaul is necessary to resolve the dispute. Masimo maintains that a software fix alone would not be an adequate solution. Apple has stated that it is working on submitting a workaround to the US customs agency for approval.
However, addressing the dispute with software tweaks may be challenging due to the breadth of Masimo’s patents. The company is also working on potential hardware fixes, which could significantly delay the process of bringing the new technology to market.
Apple added the blood-oxygen feature to its smartwatches in 2020 in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, with the feature initially included in the Series 6 model. The company has since included the feature in subsequent models like the Series 7 and 8. The ITC ban, if implemented, would not only affect direct sales channels but also impact third-party retailers. In recent years, Apple’s smartwatches have become a major growth driver, generating significant revenue and contributing to the company’s ecosystem.
As Apple continues to work on resolving the dispute, it remains uncertain whether the White House will grant the company a reprieve. The situation presents a complex dilemma for the US government, as it must navigate conflicting interests between two American companies. Masimo has expressed its support for the ITC’s judgment and emphasized the need for even the largest companies to adhere to the law.
