Apple appeals the Apple Watch ban, but reprieve could take a while

Apple stopped promoting the brand new Apple Watch Collection 9 and Apple Watch Extremely 2 within the US this vacation season, pressured by a misplaced patent dispute. The Watch ban choice was hinging on a veto by the Biden administration, however that reduction was declined, pushing Apple to cease gross sales utterly. The corporate has now filed an attraction in opposition to the patent dispute, however a call across the identical could take some time to reach.

Apple has filed an emergency request for the US Court docket of Appeals for the Federal Circuit to pause the ban till the US Customs and Border Safety decides whether or not the redesigned variations of its watches infringe upon patents, as Reuters stories. The customs workplace is because of determine on January 12, 2024, which is greater than two weeks away.

The corporate has additionally appealed the dispute outcomes to the US Court docket of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.

Apple supplied the next assertion to 9to5Mac:

At Apple, we work tirelessly to create services and products that meaningfully affect customers’ lives. It’s what drives our groups — Scientific, Design and Engineering — to dedicate years to growing scientifically validated well being, health and wellness options for Apple Watch, and we’re impressed that thousands and thousands of individuals around the globe have benefited enormously from this product. We strongly disagree with the USITC choice and ensuing exclusion order, and are taking all measures to return Apple Watch Collection 9 and Apple Watch Extremely 2 to clients within the U.S. as quickly as potential.

Apple additionally mentions that the Apple Watch ban doesn’t affect service and repairs for purchasers who bought the Apple Watch Collection 9 and Apple Watch Extremely 2 earlier than December 25. It’s also possible to proceed to buy these smartwatches from retailers like Finest Purchase and Amazon till shares final. Alternatively, you’ll be able to accept the Apple Watch SE, although it misses out on a number of options.

Apple can be working to develop a software program repair that will circumvent the patents. Masimo, the corporate whose patents have been infringed upon, contends {that a} software program repair wouldn’t be satisfactory and that the {hardware} should change.

How this all performs out stays to be seen. Shedding out its prime smartwatches throughout the essential sale season is undoubtedly a giant blow to Apple.