Health tech firm Masimo is currently in a dispute with Apple over patent rights, leading to the halt on the sale of certain Apple Watch models. Masimo’s CEO, Joe Kiani, revealed that in 2013, he had discussions with Apple regarding a potential acquisition or employment. Kiani believes that the infringement of their patent rights was not accidental but a deliberate act by Apple to take Masimo’s intellectual property. He accused Apple of hiring over 20 Masimo engineers and claimed that Masimo was the true inventor and creator of the technologies used in the Apple Watch models. Despite being open to a settlement, no agreement has been reached thus far.
Apple Watch models affected by the sales halt
Apple recently announced that it will no longer be selling two Apple Watch models due to a ruling by the International Trade Commission (ITC) that found their use of blood-oxygen sensing technology to be in violation of Masimo’s patents. The ITC has also proposed a ban on the import of these watches starting from December 25, 2023. Apple stated that it will remove the affected models from shelves before the deadline. Masimo views the ITC’s decision as a demonstration that even the most powerful company in the world must abide by the rules.
Apple’s response and plans moving forward
Apple, on the other hand, strongly disagrees with the ITC ruling and is exploring various legal and technical options to ensure that the Apple Watch remains available to customers. If the ban on sales stands, Apple has pledged to take all necessary measures to promptly return the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to customers in the US.
Counter accusation by Apple
In response to Masimo’s patent violation case, Apple has made a counter accusation against Kiani. They claim that he initiated the case in order to promote his own smartwatch, which they believe is a copy of the Apple Watch.
Overall, the dispute between Masimo and Apple has resulted in the halt of sales for certain Apple Watch models. While Masimo accuses Apple of deliberately infringing on their patent rights, Apple disagrees with the ruling and is determined to ensure the availability of their watches to customers. The outcome of this dispute remains uncertain, but it highlights the importance of intellectual property rights in the tech industry.
