- Apple is victorious from yet another legal patent dispute that could have trigger Apple Watch Import Ban in the US.
- Apparently, AliveCor filed a patent dispute against Apple after the latter disconnect using their ECG technology in favor of in-house tech.
- It means Apple can freely use its ECG technology on Apple Watch models without facing potential import ban.
Apple could finally take a breath of relief as the potential Apple Watch import ban is no longer flying. This comes after the US Court of Appeals decided in favor of Apple against AliveCor where the latter entered a legal battle tagging Apple as the culprit for copying EKG patents used on Apple Watch models.
AliveCor Vs. Apple Watch Import Ban Comes to an End
AliveCor filed a legal dispute against Apple after it reportedly copied the electrocardiogram (ECG) technology that it has been using on Apple Watch since Series 4. However, Apple countered the same at the Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) at the USPTO, following which, the ruling came in favor of Apple.
Apparently, the PTAB believes AliveCor’s patents are unpatentable due to the existence of prior art. This move actually puts an end to the potential Apple Watch import ban in the US that could’ve been triggered should Apple lose the patent dispute.
Background: Apple and AliveCor’s ECG Technology
To give a bit of background, Apple started using AliveCor’s ECG technology in the initial edition of the Apple Watch before switching to an in-house one. However, AliveCor believes Apple has reportedly blocked third-party developers such as itself from using their ECG technology on its platform. Following this, AliveCor filed a patent infringement complaint against Apple at the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC).
AliveCor’s Response to the Ruling
For the unversed, it is not the first time Apple has faced such legal disputes, especially when it comes to playing a monopolizing power and preventing any third party from operating on its platform. AliveCor expressed dissatisfaction with the ruling, stating how Apple’s practices are threatening the existence of small innovators when big players play pawn with their technology.
On the other hand, Apple will continue to sell its Apple Watch models across the U.S. and other international markets without any hassle. It does have to endure another set of infringing complaints filed by Masimo over the use of blood oxygen technology that caused an import ban in the U.S. which is still under effect.
