Apple Smartwatch Tango: Apple is hitting a speed bump in the U.S. as it temporarily pumps the brakes on sales for its Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches. Why, you ask? Well, there’s a patent dispute lurking in the background, specifically revolving around the blood oxygen tech these gadgets boast. Things got spicy in October when the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) dropped an order suggesting Apple might be barred from importing its Apple Watches, all because they allegedly infringe on medical tech firm Masimo’s patent rights.
Now, President Joe Biden is giving this whole drama a once-over until Dec. 25. Apple, not wanting to play fast and loose, is making moves to toe the line if the ruling sticks. The ban, if Uncle Sam doesn’t pull a veto, is set to kick in on Dec. 26.
So, what’s Apple’s play here? They’re hitting pause on sales for the affected smartwatches online from Dec. 21 and in physical Apple stores from Dec. 24. But before you panic, other Apple Watch models without the blood oxygen sensor, like the Apple Watch SE, are chilling on the sidelines, unaffected by the legal theatrics.
Ryan Reith, the Program Vice President over at IDC’s mobile device tracking efforts, thinks this won’t put a dent in Apple’s holiday smartwatch sales. He’s betting Apple’s got enough Watch 8 and SE units in the warehouse to keep the holiday spirit alive. The real test, if the ruling stands, might hit in the slower sales months of January and February.
Apple’s smartwatch dominance is no joke, holding about 25% of the global market share, according to the folks at Counterpoint Research. This share tends to spike to over a third during the holiday season. Fear not, global shoppersthe Series 9 and Ultra 2 are still up for grabs outside the U.S., including during the Lunar New Year festivities in Asia.
Apple’s not rolling over in this legal tussle. They’re gearing up for an appeal, maintaining their stance that the ITC goofed. Masimo, the medical tech whiz in the other corner, claims Apple swiped their pulse oximetry tech and snagged their employees for good measure. A California federal court jury trial in May ended up in a mistrial on these allegations.
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Masimo’s CEO, Joe Kiani, threw out the olive branch back in October, saying he’s open to striking a deal with Apple. In a recent statement, Masimo’s all about respecting the ITC‘s decision to keep the intellectual property flame burning bright.
But beyond the courtroom drama, Apple’s looking at tweaking the tech. Engineers are doing their thing, tweaking algorithms to change how the smartwatches figure out oxygen saturation and show off the data. Apple’s playing both sides, exploring legal and tech tweaks just in case the import ban becomes a reality.
Reports say Apple’s sending fresh signs to its stores, promoting the Apple Watch without featuring the Series 9 and Ultra 2the troublemakers in this ban. An Apple spokesperson spilled the beans, confirming they’re working on a workaround submission to the U.S. customs agency. The goal? Get the affected smartwatches back on the shelves pronto.
Masimo’s not budging, insisting that Apple needs a hardware makeover to play by the rules. As of now, Apple’s keeping mum on the Bloomberg report that spilled the beans on their adjustments. This kerfuffle isn’t just a blip on Apple’s financial radar. It’s a crucial chapter for their wearables, home, and accessory business, raking in $8.28 billion in revenue in Q3 2023, according to the company’s report.
As this legal saga unfolds, Apple’s doing the tightrope dance, juggling legal moves, tech tweaks, and trying to keep the public on their side. It’s a real-time playbook in the intricate game of protecting innovations in the tech big leagues.
Our Reader’s Queries
Do you have to pay monthly for Apple Watch cellular?
Rest assured, there’s no need to shell out a monthly fee to use your watch. Simply keep your paired iPhone close by and you’ll be able to make and answer calls, send messages, and more, all without having to pay the $10 monthly charge.
Can you use Apple Watch without cellular plan?
A cellular plan is not required for Watch to function. However, it’s important to note that without a plan, cellular access will not be available. Nonetheless, Watch is fully equipped to provide all other functions without any issues.
Can I get my kid an Apple Watch without a phone?
Family Setup allows your loved ones without an iPhone to utilize their Apple Watch for making calls, sending messages, and sharing their location with you. Once you’ve set up the watch for them, you can easily manage its features using your own iPhone. This feature is perfect for families who want to stay connected and keep track of each other’s whereabouts. With Family Setup, you can ensure that everyone in your family is just a tap away.
Can you use Apple Watch as a phone?
With Wi-Fi calling from your cellular carrier, your Apple Watch can now make and receive calls over Wi-Fi, even when your iPhone is not nearby or powered off. As long as your watch is within range of a Wi-Fi network that your iPhone has previously connected to, you can stay connected without relying on the cellular network. Enjoy the convenience of staying connected wherever you are, without the need for your iPhone to be present.