Apple may have found a way around limitations on two of its most recent wristwatch models, the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2, so that they can still deliver all of their functions. The tech giant will eliminate blood oxygen measurement on these watches to address the legal issues with health-tech company Masimo.

Masimo has been suing Apple for infringement of their patents since 2013; a decade has passed.

However, Apple had wished that the Biden administration would intervene, but on December 21, watches were removed from all Apple's stores when Masimo complained to the International Trade Commission.

In response, Apple suggested doing away with the blood oxygen feature, and Masimo has now verified that they are on board with this resolution.

The Cupertino giant aims to address the legal challenges and resume sales of the affected watch models.

Removing Blood Oxygen Feature Amid Patent Dispute

Apple has devised a solution in response to the ban on two of its watches, the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2. Apple will remove the blood oxygen measurement feature from these watches to mitigate legal issues with health-tech company Masimo.

The longstanding dispute, initiated in 2013, involves Masimo accusing Apple of patent violations.

Despite Apple's optimism regarding intervention from the Biden administration, the watches were pulled from Apple stores on December 21, following a complaint filed by Masimo with the International Trade Commission.

Apple proposed eliminating the blood oxygen feature to address the issue, and Masimo has now confirmed their agreement to this solution. The Cupertino giant seeks to navigate the legal challenges and resume sales of the affected watch models, emphasizing a resolution that satisfies both parties involved.

According to other sources, Apple now ships watches without the disputed functionality, indicating a software change rather than a hardware modification. The sensor remains present but inactive. The US Customs and Border Protection has deemed these watches as not falling under the import ban's scope, allowing them to be released.

Although sent to Apple stores, the company has instructed not to open or sell them until further notice, likely anticipating potential appeal outcomes.

Apple is reportedly developing a software change to update the sensor's algorithm, maintaining functionality while avoiding the ban. However, temporarily disabling the feature may be quicker while legal proceedings unfold. A court decision on the appeal is anticipated this week, and if the ban stands, it could last up to a year.

Discount on Apple Watch Series 9

Amazon offers a substantial discount on the Apple Watch Series 9, pricing the 41mm GPS model at $329 and the 45mm variant at $359. This represents a $70 reduction (18% off) from the regular rates of $399 and $429, matching Black Friday pricing and including free shipping for Amazon Prime members.

The Series 9 features the controversial "Double Tap" gesture, fitness tracking, an always-on display, and a health sensor stack for heart rate, ECG, blood oxygen, and skin temperature readings.

With all-day battery life and fast charging, the Series 9 is Amazon's No. 1 bestseller in smartwatches, making a swift purchase advisable. Additionally, Woot is offering Apple's MagSafe Leather Wallet, compatible with the iPhone 14, for $45, down from $59, with Prime members enjoying free shipping.