Nuked Hey there, my tech-loving followers! Today, let’s dive into Apple’s 916-page appeal over the Apple Watch ban.
When the International Trade Commission banned Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 sales last year, it was clear that Apple would appeal. Now, you can read all 916 pages of Apple’s appeal to the Federal Circuit if you have some time.
The ban revolves around whether Apple infringed upon medical device-maker Masimo’s pulse oximetry patents. The ITC sided with Masimo, stating that Apple had indeed infringed on their patents and caused harm to domestic industry.
The ITC is an agency similar to a court that deals with imported articles that may violate intellectual property law. The word “article” is crucial in this case, as it determines the ITC’s jurisdiction.
Apple’s appeal argues about the lack of a real case at the time of the ITC complaint. Masimo’s W1 smartwatch, the subject of the case, was launched in 2022, while the complaint was filed in 2021 with only CAD drawings as evidence.
The 916 pages filed include a brief, the ITC decision being appealed, pages from the Patent Office, and more. Apple is concerned that if the decision holds, it may set a precedent for others to follow a similar route.
At least one other medical tech company, AliveCor, has also turned to the ITC to ban Apple Watches. AliveCor’s EKG tech infringement case led to an import ban on Apple Watches, which Apple has worked around by selling modified versions that disable the blood oxygen tech.
It seems like it will take some time before a resolution is reached in these cases. So, stay tuned for more updates on this ongoing battle in the tech world!
