Apple faces setback as Biden administration refrains from intervening in ITC ban

Despite Apple’s immediate appeal of the ITC decision request was rejected.

In an unexpected development, Apple grapples with a significant setback to its smartwatch lineup in the United States, as the Biden administration chooses not to intervene in a ban imposed by the International Trade Commission (ITC). The casualties include Apple’s Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2, both removed from the official website and retail shelves following the ITC’s ruling.

On December 21st, Apple proactively removed the contentious devices from its online platform, and by December 24th, they were no longer available in physical stores. The decision not to reverse the ITC’s determination was communicated through a statement from the Office of US Trade Representative Katherine Tai, citing “careful consideration” as the basis for their stance.

The ITC’s ban originates from the finding that Apple violated a patent held by Masimo, a company specializing in blood oxygen saturation technology. Consequently, the ITC not only imposed a sales ban on the Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 but also mandated Apple to cease selling any previously imported devices incorporating the contested technology.

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Despite Apple’s prompt appeal, the ITC decision stood, prompting the tech giant to seek intervention from the Biden administration. President Joe Biden’s decision not to exercise the veto option marks the second line of defense after the unsuccessful attempt to reverse the ITC ruling.

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