AliveCor is another health-focused technology company like Masimo that is involved in a patent dispute with the Apple Watch’s ECG feature. The recent sales ban caught the attention of the Mountain View-based firm, which had nothing but praise regarding the ban.
AliveCor states that innovative companies should be ‘encouraged’ that giants like Apple are being held accountable
With the latest Apple Watch sales ban, the technology giant is not permitted to sell any Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 9 models on its U.S. online or physical stores, though the company’s retail partners can continue selling these models until stock runs out. Masimo initiated its lawsuit against Apple back in 2020, but AliveCor has also been involved with the same firm over an ECG patents dispute. Unfortunately, the court has not reached a verdict on AliveCor’s case.
Regardless, based on the statement below, AliveCor told 9to5Mac that it supports Masimo and praises both the International Trade Commission (ITC) and the Biden administration for banning some Apple Watch models in the region.
“This is the second time in less than 12 months President Biden has allowed an International Trade Commission Limited Exclusion Order (LEO) to stand against imports of Apple Watches that violate the patents of small U.S. innovators. Earlier this year, AliveCor’s patent for its FDA-cleared personal electrocardiogram (ECG) technology was similarly affirmed and we share our support today for Masimo’s tenacity in its face off with Apple. Innovator companies and health consumers alike should be encouraged that industry giants are increasingly being held accountable for anticompetitive practices that would ultimately limit access to potentially life-saving technology.”
Back in 2015, AliveCor demonstrated an Apple Watch ban with an in-built ECG sensor and wished to form a business relationship with the Cupertino firm. However, instead of joining forces, Apple launched its solution in the Apple Watch Series 4, resulting in a lawsuit. AliveCor has accused Apple of stealing its technologies and, just like Masimo, requested the ITC to ban Apple Watch sales. It also filed an antitrust lawsuit against the company, alleging that it is making it difficult for competitors to access the heart rate monitor with 3rd-party applications.
How successful AliveCor will be with its own patent infringement case against Apple, only the court can decide, but given that the ITC and Biden administration have sided with Masimo on this occasion, things are looking positive for AliveCor.
News Source: 9to5Mac
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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