In a significant development that could impact Apple's holiday season sales, the tech giant finds itself under renewed federal scrutiny over its Apple Watch blood oxygen monitoring feature. The US International Trade Commission (ITC) has launched a fresh investigation to determine if Apple's redesigned technology continues to violate patents held by medical device manufacturer Masimo.
Technical Workaround Under Microscope
The investigation specifically examines Apple's August 2024 technical solution, which processes blood oxygen data on paired iPhones rather than directly on the watch hardware. This redesign allows users to initiate measurements from their wrist but requires them to check results through the iPhone's Health app. While US Customs approved this approach in August, Masimo contends that Apple bypassed proper notification procedures.
The investigation is expected to conclude by April 2026, and if investigators determine the redesign still infringes on Masimo's pulse oximetry patents, US imports of Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 models could face another ban. This comes just months after Apple received clearance to restore the contested feature following a previous import ban.
Multi-Year Patent Battle Escalates
This investigation represents the latest chapter in an ongoing legal conflict that has already proven costly for Apple. A federal jury recently ordered Apple to pay Masimo $634 million for patent infringement covering approximately 43 million watches sold between 2020 and 2022. The ITC had previously banned certain Apple Watch imports in 2023, forcing Apple to disable blood oxygen monitoring for over a year on new devices sold in the United States.
Apple maintains its position that Masimo's patents expired in 2022 and has stated it will appeal any adverse rulings. Meanwhile, leadership changes at Masimo—including the recent departure of CEO Joe Kiani—add uncertainty to potential settlement negotiations between the two companies.
Broader Implications for Apple's Health Strategy
The ongoing legal battle poses significant risks for Apple's health technology strategy, which positions the Apple Watch as a comprehensive wellness device. The blood oxygen monitoring feature represents a key component of this health-focused approach, and any permanent removal could undermine the device's value proposition in the competitive smartwatch market.
With the crucial holiday shopping season approaching, the timing of this investigation presents additional challenges for Apple. The company must now navigate both legal complexities and market expectations while defending its technological innovations in one of its most important product categories.
