The Biden administration has chosen not to override the International Trade Commission’s earlier decision, allowing the recent U.S. ban on Apple Watch imports to stay in effect.
The recent prohibition on the import of Apple Watches into the U.S. will persist, as the Biden administration has opted not to override the International Trade Commission’s previous ruling. The ITC decision is now officially effective.
In anticipation of the ban, Apple had already ceased the sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2. Online sales were halted on December 21, with in-store sales following suit three days later.
The Office of the United States Trade Representative released a statement today, stating, “After careful consultations, Ambassador [Katherine] Tai decided not to reverse the ITC’s determination, and the ITC’s decision became final on December 26, 2023.”
Apple has consistently denied the two patent infringement allegations by health tech company Masimo that led to the ban. In response, Apple emphasizes the health-focused functionalities of the device and expresses the commitment to continue challenging the decision.
At Apple, our relentless commitment is to craft products and services that profoundly enhance the lives of our users. This dedication propels our interdisciplinary teams — comprising Clinical, Design, and Engineering experts — to invest years in creating scientifically validated health, fitness, and wellness features for the Apple Watch. We find inspiration in the fact that millions of individuals globally have experienced significant benefits from our product.
Expressing strong disagreement with the recent decision by the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) and the subsequent issuance of an exclusion order, we are taking every necessary step to swiftly return the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to our customers in the United States. Our commitment to delivering innovative and impactful technology remains unwavering, and we will continue to explore avenues to ensure the availability of these products for our valued users.
Apple had taken proactive measures in response to the impending ban, temporarily discontinuing the sales of affected models, namely the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2. Online sales were halted on December 21, followed by the suspension of in-store sales three days later.
“The Office of the United States Trade Representative released a statement confirming the decision: “After careful consultations, Ambassador [Katherine] Tai decided not to reverse the ITC’s determination, and the ITC’s decision became final on December 26, 2023.”
Masimo’s patent infringement claims, which Apple vehemently disputes, have not only led to the import ban but have also stirred a legal battle between the two companies. In response, Apple has emphasized the health-centric features of its smartwatch and expressed its determination to continue challenging the decision.
Apple has lodged an appeal with the Federal Circuit court in response to the recent decision. The ruling revolves around a light-based pulse oximetry sensor introduced in the Watch Series 6 in 2020. Additionally, Masimo has leveled accusations against Apple, claiming that the tech giant unlawfully recruited employees to incorporate the technology into its smartwatch lineup.”
Following the US International Trade Commission’s decision in October, Masimo’s founder and CEO, Joe Kiani, released a statement, stating, “Today’s ruling by the USITC sends a powerful message that even the world’s largest company is not above the law. This important determination is a strong validation of our efforts to hold Apple accountable for unlawfully misappropriating our patented technology.”
The upheld ban raises questions about the future availability of Apple Watch models affected by the patent dispute in the U.S. market. As the legal proceedings continue, consumers and industry experts will be closely watching for any developments in this ongoing dispute between Apple and Masimo.