If you’ve been wondering why Apple Watches banned in Masimo, you’re not alone. The news has sparked interest among tech lovers and health-conscious users alike. The ban is the result of a high-profile legal battle between Apple and Masimo, a medical technology leader known for its advanced health monitoring systems.
In this article, we’ll explain why Apple Watches banned in Masimo, which models are affected, how it impacts users, and what the future holds for Apple’s wearable tech.
The Backstory: Apple vs. Masimo
Masimo is a global medical technology company specializing in pulse oximetry, a non-invasive way of measuring blood oxygen levels. The company claims that Apple incorporated Masimo’s patented blood oxygen monitoring technology into certain Apple Watch models without authorization.
In January 2023, Masimo took legal action, arguing that Apple’s Blood Oxygen Sensor directly infringed on their patents. According to the Apple Newsroom, Apple denied wrongdoing but prepared for potential changes in its product lineup.
Why Apple Watches Banned in Masimo
The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) investigated the dispute and sided with Masimo. As a result, the ITC issued a ban that stopped the import and sale of specific Apple Watch models in the United States and influenced availability in some other regions.
Apple Watch models affected by the Masimo ban:
- Apple Watch Series 9
- Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Any models containing the disputed blood oxygen technology
If you want to explore the latest watch lineup unaffected by the ban, read our Apple Watch buying guide on Inslyn.com.
Impact on Apple Watch Users
For people who already own these Apple Watches, the ban does not disable the device or its features. You can still use all health tracking options, including the blood oxygen app. However, future repairs, replacements, or new purchases might be limited.
Learn more about health functions in our Apple Watch health features guide.
Apple’s Official Response
Apple has appealed the ruling and is exploring options to bypass Masimo’s patents. This could involve modifying the blood oxygen monitoring feature through software updates or removing it entirely from future models.
The Bigger Picture(Why Apple Watches Banned in Masimo)
The ban on Apple Watches in Masimo highlights the growing importance of patent protection in wearable technology. Apple’s push into health and fitness tracking is challenging companies that have decades of experience in medical technology.
If you’re interested in Apple’s other legal disputes, check out our Apple vs. Epic Games case summary.
Possible Future Outcomes
Apple Wins the Appeal: The ban is lifted, and sales resume without restrictions.
Apple Modifies the Product: New versions are released without the disputed technology.
Long-Term Restriction: Some models remain unavailable in certain countries.
Now you know why Apple Watches banned in Masimo — it’s a battle over intellectual property and innovation. While the ban mainly impacts new sales, it also signals that future Apple Watch features may change.
