Masimo, a leading medical technology company, has initiated a lawsuit against the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) following Apple’s release of a “redesigned” blood oxygen monitoring feature. This legal action marks the latest chapter in the ongoing dispute between Masimo and Apple, which began in 2021 when Masimo accused the tech giant of infringing on its light-based blood oxygen monitoring patents. The conflict escalated in 2023 when a court ruling temporarily halted sales of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the United States.
The announcement comes as Apple introduced a new blood oxygen monitoring feature for its Watch Series 9, Series 10, and Ultra 2 models. The feature circumvents the previous ban by measuring and calculating data from the watches’ sensors on paired iPhones, allowing users to access their blood oxygen data through the Health app’s Respiratory section. Apple claims this update was made possible by a recent US Customs ruling.
Background of the Legal Dispute
The legal battle between Masimo and Apple has been closely watched by industry experts and consumers alike. In 2021, Masimo filed a lawsuit against Apple, alleging that the company had infringed on several of its patents related to blood oxygen monitoring technology. The case took a significant turn in 2023 when a court sided with Masimo, resulting in a temporary sales ban on certain Apple Watch models in the US.
To comply with the court’s decision, Apple removed the Blood Oxygen app from the affected watch models sold in the US. However, the tech giant’s recent introduction of a redesigned feature has reignited tensions between the two companies.
Masimo’s Response and Legal Actions
Masimo’s latest lawsuit targets the US Customs and Border Protection, challenging the agency’s decision to allow the import of Apple Watches with the redesigned feature. According to Masimo, the ruling was issued without the company’s knowledge, and it argues that the agency “exceeded its authority” by not hearing both sides before making its decision.
In its complaint, Masimo is seeking an injunction against the CBP’s ruling, aiming to restrict imports of the devices unless their blood oxygen-tracking function is disabled. The company contends that the ruling unfairly impacts its competitive standing in the US market.
“Each passing day that this unlawful ruling remains in effect irreparably deprives Masimo of its right to be free from unfair trade practices and to preserve its competitive standing in the US marketplace,” Masimo stated.
Implications for the Tech and Medical Industries
This development follows a growing trend of legal battles in the tech industry, particularly concerning patent rights and competitive practices. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for both technology companies and medical device manufacturers, as it may set precedents for how similar disputes are handled in the future.
Experts in the field have highlighted the importance of protecting intellectual property while also fostering innovation. The balance between these two priorities remains a contentious issue, with companies like Masimo and Apple often finding themselves at odds over the boundaries of technological advancement.
Looking Ahead
As the legal proceedings continue, both Masimo and Apple are likely to face increased scrutiny from regulators and industry stakeholders. The case underscores the challenges that arise when technology and healthcare intersect, particularly as companies strive to integrate advanced features into consumer devices.
Meanwhile, consumers and investors will be watching closely to see how this dispute unfolds and what it means for the future of wearable technology. The resolution of this case could influence not only the strategies of major tech companies but also the regulatory landscape governing medical devices and consumer electronics.
For now, the industry awaits further developments as Masimo seeks to overturn the US Customs ruling and Apple continues to defend its redesigned feature. The outcome will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences for both companies and the broader market.
