Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 devices will no longer include the blood oxygen feature, according to recent reports. This decision comes after the US Customs and Border Protection approved a measure that allows Apple to consider selling the devices again, following a ban last year. The ban came as a result of a patent dispute with medical device maker Masimo, who claimed that Apple’s blood oxygen sensors infringed on their patents.
Initially, Apple removed the watches from stores but managed to secure a temporary pause on the ban while they made changes to their devices. The new plan is to eliminate the blood oxygen feature from the watches altogether. Modified watches have already been shipped to Apple retail stores, but they have been instructed not to sell them until they receive word from the corporate headquarters.
While the blood oxygen feature is still active on the watches that have already been sold, it remains uncertain how long it will continue to be available. This ambiguity has led to confusion among users who rely on this feature. As a result, users may want to carefully check for updates and consider holding off on purchasing a new Apple Watch if the blood oxygen feature is important to them.
This news has sparked discussions among technology enthusiasts and Apple fans, with many expressing disappointment over the removal of the blood oxygen feature. The feature, which measures the level of oxygen saturation in a person’s blood, has been particularly useful for those interested in tracking their health and wellness.
The resolution of the patent dispute between Apple and Masimo has paved the way for the return of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 to the market. However, the decision to remove the blood oxygen feature has left some users feeling uncertain about the future of Apple’s wearable devices. Nevertheless, Apple’s decision to make the necessary modifications and comply with the ban is a positive step towards ensuring that their devices meet all legal requirements.
As Apple retail stores await further instructions from the corporate office, consumers are eagerly anticipating updates regarding the availability of the modified watches. In the meantime, Apple may face increasing pressure to develop alternative health tracking features or collaborate with other medical device companies to provide similar functionalities.
Overall, the removal of the blood oxygen feature from the new Apple Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 devices marks a significant development in the ongoing patent dispute with Masimo. While the feature remains active on watches already sold, the uncertainty surrounding its future could impact users’ decisions to purchase the latest Apple wearable.
“Infuriatingly humble tv expert. Friendly student. Travel fanatic. Bacon fan. Unable to type with boxing gloves on.”