Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 9 Face Imminent Sales Ban: What You Need to Know

Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 9

Apple is facing a ticking clock as the deadline looms for the latest additions to the Apple Watch lineup. In a significant setback, the US International Trade Commission (ITC) has refused the company’s request for a delay in the ban on imports and sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2. This ban, mandated in an October ruling, asserts that Apple has violated patents owned by medical device company Masimo, specifically related to SpO2 sensors used for measuring blood oxygen levels.

Denial of Request and Immediate Action

Wednesday marked another blow for Apple as the ITC rejected its plea to postpone the ban. Consequently, Apple has decided to remove the Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 from all its US store shelves by December 24. The import ban is set to take effect on December 26. Notably, this action is limited to Apple’s official retail outlets; third-party sellers like Best Buy can continue selling any remaining inventory post this date.

Apple’s Response and Ongoing Efforts

Despite this setback, Apple is not throwing in the towel just yet. The company is actively exploring potential software modifications for the watches, aiming to find a solution that would allow it to bypass the imposed ban. Additionally, there remains a slim chance of overturning the ITC’s decision if President Joe Biden chooses to veto it, although industry experts express skepticism regarding this outcome.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 9
Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 9

ITC’s Stand and Consumer Deadline

In the recently released filing denying Apple’s request for a stay, the ITC stated, “for the reasons discussed in the Commission Opinion issued concurrently herewith, the Commission has determined to deny Appleā€™s motion to stay the remedial orders pending appeal and/or in light of a potential government shutdown.”

As things stand, consumers have a narrow window until December 24 to acquire the Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2 from Apple’s official stores. Post this date, availability will be restricted as Apple wages a battle to retain its latest smartwatch offerings within the US market.

In conclusion, the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 are at the crossroads of a regulatory challenge, and time is of the essence for those looking to secure these devices before they potentially vanish from the Apple retail landscape.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 9
Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 9 facing a sales ban in US.

FAQs

1. Why are the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 facing a sales ban?

The US International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled in October that Apple infringed on patents held by Masimo, a medical device company, specifically related to SpO2 sensors for measuring blood oxygen levels.

2. When will the import ban take effect?

The import ban on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 is scheduled to take effect on December 26.

3. Can third-party retailers still sell the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 after December 26?

Yes, third-party retailers, such as Best Buy, can continue selling any remaining inventory after the ban goes into effect.

4. Is there any hope for consumers to still purchase these watches after December 24?

Consumers have until December 24 to acquire the Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2 from Apple’s official stores. Post this date, availability will be restricted as Apple fights to keep its latest smartwatch offerings within the US market.

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