Apple has secured a decisive victory from the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) in a patent dispute with Masimo over pulse oximetry technology used in Apple Watch devices. The ruling confirms that Apple’s smartwatches do not infringe on Masimo’s patents, lifting potential import restrictions.
ITC Declines Review, Finalizes Favorable Decision
The ITC opted not to review a preliminary determination issued in March, effectively dismissing Masimo’s complaint. This finalizes the judgment in Apple’s favor. The initial finding addressed allegations that Apple’s blood oxygen monitoring feature, introduced in Apple Watch models last August, violated Masimo’s intellectual property rights.
Apple’s Response to the Ruling
Apple welcomed the outcome, stating it “allows us to continue providing these important health features.” The decision ensures uninterrupted access to core wellness monitoring capabilities for users.
Masimo’s Criticism
Masimo, a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR), sharply criticized the verdict, describing it as a “frivolous public relations offensive.” The company alleges Apple misappropriated trade secrets to develop its blood oxygen sensors.
Context of Ongoing Legal Battles
The dispute echoes a late 2023 ITC decision that banned imports of Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models due to similar infringement claims. Apple circumvented the restriction by altering how blood oxygen data displays on the devices, decoupling it from iPhone connectivity in current software versions.
Despite this win, challenges persist. Apple and Masimo remain embroiled in federal court proceedings in California over trade secret issues. Masimo secured a $340 million jury verdict in November, awarding damages for alleged misappropriation. Apple intends to contest the award, though analysts highlight ongoing risks to its wearables segment.
Masimo has signaled plans to appeal the ITC ruling and participate in any extension proceedings, underscoring the protracted nature of the rivalry between the two firms.
