Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 Back in Stores
Remember that frustrating news that you are not allowed to get the latest Apple watch series and Watch Ultra 2? Well, this issue is no longer alive. As of yesterday, you can once again get your hands on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, both online and in select physical Apple stores.
Starting December 28, some lucky Apple stores have the Series 9 and Ultra 2 glorifying their shelves. However, the Online sales resumed at 3 PM yesterday, so you can browse and buy them from Apple Store. Apple expects these beauties to be available in all physical stores by Saturday, December 30th.
A recent legal order put a temporary pause on sales, but that’s all the past things now. Apple is ready to get these watches back on wrists around the world, and tech enthusiasts are more than happy with this excitement.
Besides this Ban lifting, Apple is fighting the charges that it copied a blood oxygen sensor tech from a company called Masimo. The whole thing started in October when a trade commission decided Apple was in the wrong. However, we are thankful to the US court appeal, that those watches can keep flowing into the United States.
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However, it’s not over yet, though. The court needs more time to decide if the ban stays permanently on hold while Apple’s lawsuit continues. Masimo accused them of copying their blood oxygen monitoring tech, claiming Apple’s version infringes on their patents. Apple, of course, says it did nothing wrong and even consulted with other companies before creating its own blood oxygen feature.
The whole thing got messy enough that a trade commission ruled against Apple, banning imports of the latest Apple Watch models (Series 9 and Ultra 2) that had the blood oxygen feature. Apple, not wanting to lose out on those fancy watch sales, pulled those specific models from their stores.
Now, the two sides are locked in a legal battle, with Apple appealing the import ban and Masimo sticking to their claims. Who will win? We’ll have to wait and see. But one thing’s for sure: this little fight could have big implications for both companies. And it can impact on future smartwatches of Apple.
Until now, Apple submitted an urgent request to stop the ban when the White House chose not to get involved, and the ITC’s decision became official on December 26. So for now, smartwatch fans can rest easy (and keep on tracking those oxygen levels!).
According to Gene Munster, a seasoned Apple analyst, Apple probably hoped the Biden administration would overturn the decision. The temporary hold by the appeals court adds another unexpected turn to the situation.
The court of appeals granted Apple the temporary right to keep selling its watches. This comes as Apple awaits a decision on whether modifications to its watches will resolve the patent concerns. The US Customs and Border Protection is set to make a ruling on these changes by January 12th. If that doesn’t happen, the court will acquire the option of postponing the ban until it can make a final decision on the patent dispute. This potential delay could extend the ban for several more months.
Apple’s teams have struggled a lot over the years to facilitate their users with top-notch health, wellness, and safety features. We are delighted that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has temporarily halted the exclusion order. This pause allows the court to review our request to suspend the order until our complete appeal is considered, as mentioned by Rothberg in an email statement.
Although, this blood oxygen measuring sensor got Apple in trouble with another company. But the good news is, the legal stuff got sorted out quickly, and Apple’s fancy watches are back on shelves. You’re good to go if you’re in the market for a high-tech wrist buddy. The ban only affected Apple’s own stores and website. So, if you are a store owner with Watch 9 and Ultra 2, you can still sell your existing stock.
Check out the full review of Apple Watch Series 9
For Apple buyers, I must say head to your nearest Apple store or online Apple market to secure your Apple Watch Series 9 or Ultra 2. With their cutting-edge tech and stylish designs, these timepieces are guaranteed to make your life a whole lot easier.