Triggers New Masimo Lawsuit
Apple Watch blood oxygen monitoring has once again sparked legal tensions, as medical technology company Masimo has filed a fresh lawsuit challenging Apple’s workaround. After the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently allowed Apple to reintroduce the feature through a software-based method, Masimo argues the decision violates existing patent rulings. Many Apple Watch users have been curious about why this feature disappeared and returned, and the ongoing legal battle sheds light on the complicated relationship between innovation, patents, and health technology.
Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Monitoring Dispute
The heart of the conflict lies in Apple’s use of pulse oximetry technology, which Masimo claims infringes on its patents. In December 2023, the International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled against Apple, resulting in a temporary import ban on newer watch models. Apple later removed the blood oxygen feature in compliance but has now reintroduced it by shifting the calculations to paired iPhones rather than the watch itself. Masimo contends that this approach still mirrors its patented technology and that CBP exceeded its authority by permitting Apple’s workaround.
How Apple’s Workaround Works
Apple’s latest update for iOS and watchOS enables blood oxygen measurements on the Apple Watch by transferring data processing to the connected iPhone. This method allows Apple to offer users nearly the same functionality while technically avoiding the ITC’s original patent ruling. While users may not notice a major difference in everyday use, the legal implications are significant. Masimo argues that CBP is creating loopholes that weaken the enforcement of ITC exclusion orders, and it has now filed for an injunction to stop the approval of this workaround.
Impact On Apple Watch Users
For Apple Watch owners, the return of blood oxygen monitoring brings back a valuable health-tracking feature, especially for those who rely on it for fitness and wellness insights. However, uncertainty remains over whether the feature will stay enabled as the lawsuit progresses. If courts rule in favor of Masimo, Apple may once again be forced to remove or alter the feature, creating frustration for users who depend on continuous health metrics from their devices.
What Comes Next In The Legal Battle
The Apple Watch blood oxygen lawsuit underscores the ongoing tension between health technology companies and intellectual property rights. While Apple continues to push boundaries in wearable health monitoring, Masimo remains committed to protecting its innovations. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how tech giants approach software-based workarounds in response to patent disputes. For consumers, it highlights how legal battles can directly impact the availability of everyday features on popular devices.
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