Apple's decision comes after the US International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled in October that Apple had infringed on patents from health technology company Masimo. Masimo is best known for its non-invasive medical monitoring devices, especially its pulse oximeters.
According to Reuters, US users will not be able to order these two products on the Apple Store online from 3 p.m. on December 21, while Apple retail stores will continue to deliver the devices until December 24. However, customers in other countries can still buy as usual.
The dispute between Apple and Masimo has been long and escalating over the past few years. Masimo has filed two separate lawsuits, one in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California and one with the ITC. The company accuses Apple of stealing SpO2 measuring technology to integrate into the Apple Watch.
The dispute resulted in an import ban by the ITC. Apple representatives objected to the decision and said the company would appeal to the Federal Court. However, Apple later decided to comply by stopping sales of the product as of December 25.
An Apple spokesperson said the company will “take every measure to get products to customers in the US as soon as possible.” This poses many challenges for the company in maintaining relationships with US customers and managing the economic consequences.
The wearables, home and accessories business, which includes the Apple Watch, AirPods and other products, generated $8.28 billion in revenue in the third quarter, according to Apple. The decision could have a significant impact on Apple's business outlook going forward.
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