The ban on certain models of Apple's smartwatch over patent infringement came into force in the United States on Tuesday, with President Joe Biden's administration deciding not to veto the decision.
• Also read: Apple stops selling its watch models in the USA
On October 27, the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) recommended banning certain models of Apple Watch in the United States after medical device maker Masimo accused it of copying its technologies for measuring blood oxygen levels.
“After extensive consultations, Trade Representative Katherine Tai “has decided not to oppose the USITC decision, which became final on December 26, 2023,” said the House-affiliated Diplomatic Mission for Trade – White.
The USITC stated in a press release that Apple “infringed two patents owned by Masimo Corporation and Cercacor Laboratories.”
AFP
The U.S. government had 60 days from the USITC's decision to appeal.
On December 18, Apple had already announced the suspension of sales of several models, the Apple Watch Series 9 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2, to “respect the decision if confirmed,” a door spokesman told AFP. – Speech of the group.
But for Apple, the American authority was still wrong and its decision should have been annulled, although the Apple company said it was ready to take legal action if necessary.
Masimo filed a complaint with the USITC in 2021 regarding the Apple Watch 6, a model launched in 2020 with a blood oxygen saturation measurement feature, thereby copying one of its patented technologies, according to the medical device maker.
In turn, Apple filed two patent non-compliance lawsuits against Masimo in late 2022, accusing the company of copying the technology of its connected watches.