In a long and complicated legal battle between Apple and Masimo, a recent California jury verdict may be the first step toward a conclusion. As reported ReutersA federal jury sided with Masimo, a medical technology company known for its patient-tracking equipment, when it ruled that Apple had infringed on the company’s patents for technology that measures blood oxygen levels.
The case revolves around Apple’s infringement of Masimo’s patent for blood oxygen sensors, which the jury said are visible in the motion and heart rate apps on the Apple Watch. That’s why ReutersApple disagrees with the ruling, adding that “the sole patent in this case expired in 2022 and specifically covers historical patient monitoring technology from decades ago.” The tech giant reportedly plans to appeal the decision.
As this California lawsuit nears its conclusion, Apple and Masimo are embroiled in a web of related but separate lawsuits. Masimo initially accused Apple of infringing pulse oximeter patents, prompting Apple to temporarily halt sales of its Series 9 and Ultra 2 smartwatches. In August, Apple redesigned the blood oxygen monitoring feature, introducing it to the Series 9, 10 and Ultra 2. The redesign was approved by US Customs and Border Protection, but Masimo filed a lawsuit against the agency for exceeding its authority by allowing the sale. Apple watches updated without intervention from Masimo.