Apple wins latest round in Masimo patent dispute over Apple Watch blood oxygen feature

Apple has prevailed in the latest stage of its patent dispute with Masimo over the Apple Watch's blood oxygen feature, as the International Trade Commission declined to review a ruling that found Apple's redesigned version does not infringe. The ITC's decision closes the case and rejects Masimo's attempt to reinstate an import ban on Apple Watches containing the technology. Apple had previously deactivated the original blood oxygen sensor on U.S. models to avoid a ban, then developed a redesigned version that processes data on the iPhone instead of the watch. On March 18, Administrative Law Judge Monica Bhattacharyya determined that Apple's redesign does not violate Masimo's patents. The full Commission has now chosen not to review that finding, terminating the proceeding. While the Federal Circuit has affirmed that the original version of the feature remains banned in the United States, Apple can continue selling watches with the redesigned implementation. "We thank the ITC for its decision, which ensures we can continue to offer this important health feature to our users," Apple said in a statement. "For more than six years, Masimo has waged a relentless legal campaign against Apple, and nearly all of its claims have been rejected." The company noted it will keep offering the redesigned Blood Oxygen feature alongside other health capabilities such as ECG monitoring and irregular rhythm notifications. Masimo may still appeal the ruling.