Apple has made some changes to its Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 models in response to a legal dispute with Masimo. The pulse oximeter feature on these watches has caused the legal issue, and as a result, Apple has disabled the pulse oximeter on these units in order to comply with the ruling.
According to a statement given to 9to5Mac, Apple’s appeal is ongoing and they believe the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit should reverse the USITC’s decision. However, in the meantime, Apple is taking steps to comply with the ruling while ensuring customers have access to the Apple Watch with limited disruption.
As a result, Apple will be introducing a version of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 in the United States without the Blood Oxygen feature. These updated models will be available for purchase on January 18 from apple.com and at U.S. Apple Stores. There will be no impact on previously purchased Apple Watch units that include the Blood Oxygen feature.
It is unclear if Apple plans to reduce the price of the affected watches now that the pulse oximeter feature will be disabled. Customers who attempt to use the Blood Oxygen feature on the updated models will be notified that the feature is no longer available.
