The US International Trade Commission's import ban on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 has become official after the Biden administration announced that it will not veto the ban.
A statement by the Office of the US Trade Representative said:
After careful consultations, Ambassador Katherine Tai decided not to reverse the ITC's determination and the ITC's decision became final on December 26, 2023.
Apple, in response, has appealed the decision, asking for an emergency stay on the ban for at least two weeks until a decision is made on redesigned versions of the banned models. The company is reportedly working furiously on a software fix to get around the patent dispute.
Apple said:
We strongly disagree with the US ITC decision and resulting exclusion order, and are taking all measures to return Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to customers in the U.S. as soon as possible.
For those not following the case, the dispute stems from Apple's pulse-oximetry technology, which medical technology company Masimo alleges infringes on its patents.
As a result of this ban, Apple will no longer be able to sell the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the US. Third-party sellers like Best Buy and Walmart, however, will be able to continue selling until stock is exhausted.
To be absolutely clear, this ban only affects the US. Apple will continue to sell the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 here in Singapore and in many other parts of the world.
Source: The Verge
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