Hey there! Just heard some interesting news about Apple Watch series 9 and Ultra 2 models. It seems that there might be a slight change coming to these watches, as Apple may be removing the Blood Oxygen app from them in the U.S. This move is likely a response to a patent dispute with medical technology company Masimo. The U.S. International Trade Commission had previously ordered an import and sales ban on Apple Watch models with blood oxygen sensing, citing a violation of Masimo’s patents. However, Apple has found a way to temporarily sidestep this ban by removing the app from the new models. Curious to find out more details? Let’s dive in!
Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Models in the U.S. to be Sold Without Blood Oxygen App
Overview of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models
The Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 are the latest models in Apple’s popular smartwatch lineup. These models boast a range of exciting features and improvements over their predecessors, including enhanced performance, improved battery life, and advanced health and fitness tracking capabilities. However, it has recently come to light that these models will be sold in the U.S. without the Blood Oxygen app.
Removal of the Blood Oxygen app in the U.S. models
The news of the removal of the Blood Oxygen app from the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models sold in the U.S. is a significant development. The app, which measures and displays your body’s blood oxygen percentage, has been a notable feature in previous Apple Watch models. Its absence in the new Series 9 and Ultra 2 models raises questions about the implications for users and their ability to monitor their health.
Reasons for the removal of the Blood Oxygen app
The removal of the Blood Oxygen app from the U.S. models can be attributed to an ongoing legal dispute between Apple and medical technology company Masimo. Apple was found to have violated Masimo’s pulse oximetry patents, leading to an import and sales ban on Apple Watch models with blood oxygen sensing. In an effort to comply with the ban and avoid further legal complications, Apple has decided to remove the app from the Series 9 and Ultra 2 models sold in the U.S.
Apple’s response to the import and sales ban
In response to the import and sales ban imposed on Apple Watch models with blood oxygen sensing, Apple has taken steps to modify the affected models. The modified Apple Watch models that do not contain pulse oximetry functionality have been shipped to retail stores in the U.S. However, it is unclear when these modified models will go on sale, as Apple has yet to comment on the matter.
Shipping of modified Apple Watch models to retail stores
According to reports, Apple has already initiated the shipping of modified Apple Watch models to retail stores in the U.S. This move indicates Apple’s efforts to comply with the import and sales ban by removing the pulse oximetry functionality from the affected models. The modified models are expected to replace the original Series 9 and Ultra 2 models in the U.S. market.
Uncertainty regarding the availability of the modified models
While it has been confirmed that the modified Apple Watch models have been shipped to retail stores, it remains uncertain when these models will be available for purchase. Apple has not provided any specific information or timeline regarding the availability of the modified models. It is advisable for interested customers to stay updated through official announcements and channels to ensure they are aware of any developments.
Advertisement of the Blood Oxygen app on Apple’s website
Interestingly, despite the removal of the Blood Oxygen app from the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models sold in the U.S., the app is still being advertised on Apple’s website. As of now, the feature is being promoted as an available feature on the Series 9 and Ultra 2 order pages. However, it is important to note that this may change in the future, as Apple adjusts its marketing strategies in response to the removal of the app from the U.S. models.
Impact on existing owners of the Series 9 and Ultra 2 models
For those who have already purchased the Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2 models, it is unlikely that they will be affected by the removal of the Blood Oxygen app. Existing owners are expected to retain access to the feature, ensuring that they can continue to monitor their blood oxygen levels for wellness purposes. It is worth noting that this is specific to owners of the Series 9 and Ultra 2 models, as other models and regions may not be impacted.
Possible software update to adjust the Blood Oxygen app’s algorithms
In an attempt to address the issue caused by the removal of the Blood Oxygen app, Apple is reportedly working on a software update. This update is expected to adjust the app’s algorithms to avoid infringing on Masimo’s patented technology. While the success of this endeavor remains uncertain, it shows Apple’s commitment to resolving the matter and providing a comprehensive solution for users.
The ongoing legal battle between Apple and Masimo
The removal of the Blood Oxygen app from the U.S. models is a result of an ongoing legal battle between Apple and Masimo. Masimo, a medical technology company, accused Apple of violating its pulse oximetry patents. The import and sales ban imposed on Apple Watch models with blood oxygen sensing was a consequence of this legal dispute. The removal of the app is a temporary measure taken by Apple while the legal battle continues to unfold, highlighting the complexities of patent disputes in the technology industry.
In conclusion, the removal of the Blood Oxygen app from the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 models sold in the U.S. is a significant development with implications for users and the ongoing legal battle between Apple and Masimo. While the modified models have been shipped to retail stores, their availability for purchase remains uncertain. Apple’s response, including the potential software update to adjust the app’s algorithms, reflects their dedication to resolving the matter and ensuring a positive user experience. As the legal battle continues, it is important for interested individuals to stay informed through official announcements and channels for the latest updates on this matter.
