Report: Apple Considering Software Changes for Apple Watch Series 9 & Ultra 2 to Overturn US Ban
Apple is working to reverse the US ban on its latest Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches. The iPhone maker is actively exploring possible solutions, including software changes to the algorithm used to measure blood oxygen.
Bloomberg reports that Apple’s smartwatch business is worth about $17 billion, and Apple engineers are currently “tweaking” algorithms to change the way the proprietary technology determines blood oxygen saturation and presents the data to customers.
This development comes just hours after news broke that Apple is facing a US ban on its latest smartwatches. For the uninitiated, this ITC ban stems from a patent infringement dispute with Masimo, a creator of medical devices such as pulse oximeters.
While Apple may rely on a presidential veto from the Biden administration if it fails, the company will have to stop selling the smartwatch on December 21, with in-store pickup and shipping ending on December 24, just one day before Christmas.
Alternatively, Apple may decide to settle the matter directly with Masimo, although this is not a typical approach for the iPhone maker. The main focus is still on modifying the product and persuading the regulators who imposed the ban.
What will Apple do if the ban is not lifted?
If the ITC ban remains in effect, Apple will not be able to import the Apple Watch Series 8 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to the US, which will stop sales from December 21. In response, Apple is said to be preparing its stores for the transition phase. This means promoting the Apple Watch without showing images of the Series 9 and Ultra 2. Notably, the cheaper Apple Watch SE 2 is still available because it lacks the ability to measure blood oxygen levels.
