Federal Jury Orders Apple to Pay $634M for Smartwatch Patent Infringement
A California federal jury recently ruled that Apple must pay $634 million to Masimo for patent infringement related to smartwatch technology. The verdict marks a significant moment in an ongoing dispute over blood-oxygen monitoring technology.
Background of the Case
The legal battle centers on Masimo, a medical technology company specializing in patient monitoring devices. The case alleges that Apple unlawfully used Masimo’s patented technology in its Apple Watch devices, particularly regarding the tracking of blood-oxygen levels.
Details of the Verdict
- Jury finds Apple infringed on Masimo’s patent.
- Patent pertains to blood-oxygen sensors utilized in Apple Watch’s Workout and Heart Rate apps.
- Masimo originally filed the lawsuit focusing on pulse oximeter technologies.
Apple’s Response
Apple has expressed its disagreement with the verdict. The company asserted that the single patent involved expired in 2022 and relates to older patient monitoring technologies. Apple is currently planning to appeal the jury’s ruling.
Related Legal Challenges
This verdict is one of several legal encounters between Apple and Masimo. The dispute has escalated to the point where Apple temporarily suspended sales of its Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches due to the litigation.
Redesign and Further Implications
In response to the ongoing lawsuits, Apple updated its blood-oxygen monitoring feature for the affected smartwatch models. The redesign received clearance from the US Customs and Border Protection.
Nonetheless, Masimo has filed a suit against the agency, claiming that it overstepped its authority by allowing the release of these updated products without consulting Masimo.
