Apple's attempt to delay an import and sales ban on its Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 has been denied by the US International Trade Commission (ITC).
The ban, resulting from an October ruling, is based on allegations that Apple's SpO2 sensors infringe on patents held by medical device maker Masimo. Apple had announced plans to remove the affected watches from stores by December 24th, with the import ban officially taking effect on December 26th.
Despite the denial, Apple is exploring options to avoid the ban, including potential software changes.
The ban only applies in the US, and third-party retailers can continue selling the watches until their supplies are exhausted. President Joe Biden has the authority to veto the decision, but obtaining such a veto is considered highly unlikely.
