Apple Inc is preparing to stop selling its popular smartwatches in the United States, in order to comply with a trade regulation ruling. While other retailers will still be able to sell the devices, Apple has instructed its employees not to inform customers about where to purchase them.
According to a memo sent to customer service agents regarding the impending sales halt, employees are instructed not to direct shoppers to places where they can buy the devices. Instead, they are told to say, “Unfortunately, due to the ongoing legal matter, I am not able to provide you with any information about where you can buy Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2.”
The International Trade Commission ordered Apple to cease sales of its flagship watches in the US after ruling in October that the devices violate a patent held by Masimo Corp for measuring blood oxygen. Unless US President Joe Biden issues a last-minute reprieve, Apple will have to stop selling one of its most popular items by Christmas day.
While major retailers like Walmart Inc, Best Buy Co, and Target Corp are allowed to continue selling the watches, a lawyer for Masimo Corp stated that this should not be permitted. However, an Apple spokesperson stated that the ITC order only applies to Apple itself.
It is likely that big retail stores have sufficient inventory for sales that Apple has already factored into its quarterly revenue. However, it remains uncertain if those retailers will be able to acquire additional Apple Watch units and if they will eventually deplete their inventory before any potential Apple appeal.
Apple retail and customer service employees have also been instructed not to speculate with customers on when or how the matter will be resolved. The company’s online store is set to stop selling Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 on Thursday, while Apple’s physical retail locations will cease sales by Christmas Eve. – Bloomberg
