The United States has recently enforced a ban on the unauthorized importation of certain Apple Watches that are alleged to infringe on a patented pulse reader. This is a big win for Apple, as it protects their innovative technology and intellectual property.
The International Trade Commission (ITT) issued a Notice of enforcement action on August 13, 2020, banning the importation, sale, and distribution of certain Apple Watches that were determined to infringe on Empatica’s patented pulse reader. Empatica is a biomedical wearables company based in Milan, Italy. The company’s patented Pulse Reader was found to be violated by certain infringing Apple Watches.
The ITT order identifies the specific models that are currently being banned, including those that are AirPods and medical-grade styles. These models infringe on Empatica’s patented pulse reader, which is used in a variety of applications, including aiding athletes, physicians, and first responders with real-time health data monitoring.
Apple subsequently filed a motion to modify the order to prohibit the importation, sale, or distribution of all imported Apple Watches. The motion, which was granted by the ITT, now prohibits not only the specific models determined to have infringed on the patented pulse readers but also any Apple Watch that could be considered to be in violation of Empatica’s patent.
This is a major victory for Apple as they have sought to protect their own technology from infringement. It also demonstrates the importance of protecting intellectual property and ensuring that companies are not able to use the work of others without due compensation. Additionally, it serves as a deterrent to those who may be considering trying to use the technology of others without authorization.
The US ban on the import of certain Apple Watches is a significant development in the quest to preserve intellectual property and protect innovative technologies. Intellectual property laws play an important role in fostering innovation and ensuring that inventors and creators are rewarded for their work.