In a complex and long-running legal battle between Apple and Masimo, a recent decision by a California jury could be the first step toward some closure. As reported ReutersA federal jury sided with Masimo, a medical technology company known for its patient monitoring devices, when it ruled that Apple had infringed the company’s patent for technology that tracks blood oxygen levels.
The case revolves around whether Apple infringed Masimo’s patent relating to blood oxygen sensors, which the jury said can be seen with the Apple Watch’s workout and heart rate apps. According to ReutersApple disagreed with the verdict, adding that “the single patent in this case expired in 2022 and is specific to historic patient monitoring technology from decades ago.” The tech giant reportedly plans to appeal the decision.
While there may be some closure with this California lawsuit, Apple and Masimo are entangled in a web of related but separate lawsuits. Masimo initially accused Apple of infringing on its pulse oximeter patents, leading Apple to temporarily suspend sales of its Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches. In August, Apple redesigned its blood oxygen monitoring feature and rolled it out to the Series 9, 10, and Ultra 2. The redesign was approved by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, but Masimo filed a lawsuit against the agency for overstepping its authority by allowing these updated Apple Watches to be sold without Masimo’s intervention.
