Masimo CEO Slams Apple Watch’s Sensor; Apple Disables Feature in New Models. Masimo’s CEO Joe Kiani has openly criticized the Apple Watch’s blood oxygen sensor for its reliability, advising consumers they’re better off without it. This statement comes as Apple launches its Series 9 and Ultra 2 Apple Watches, which now lack the blood oxygen sensor feature due to legal disputes.
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Kiani, in a Bloomberg interview, denied any direct communication with Apple regarding a potential agreement. He mentioned ongoing court-ordered mediations, which he couldn’t detail, and expressed skepticism about these discussions leading to a resolution with Apple.
Previously, Kiani had stated Masimo’s willingness to collaborate with Apple, conditioned on an apology and transparent dialogue. He criticized the Apple Watch’s blood oxygen sensor, alleging it uses technology patented by Masimo but fails to deliver reliable medical-grade pulse oximetry.
Unlike the Apple Watch, Masimo’s W1 watch, which has FDA clearance, provides continuous real-time monitoring of oxygen saturation and heart rate, making it viable for medical use in various settings. Kiani emphasized the necessity of continuous monitoring for effective pulse oximetry.
Apple, however, has accused Masimo of imitating its Apple Watch with the W1, claiming patent infringement. In response, Kiani has labeled Apple’s claims as “false,” accusing them of distorting reality.
The legal battle led to a temporary suspension of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the U.S., following a ruling from the United States International Trade Commission (ITC). The ITC found Apple’s blood oxygen sensor to be infringing on Masimo’s patents, leading to a temporary ban on importing components for this feature. Apple later resumed sales of these models in the U.S. with the blood oxygen function disabled.
Future resolutions with Masimo or overturning of the ITC’s decision may allow Apple to reactivate the disabled sensors through a software update. Meanwhile, Apple Watches sold before the ban and outside the U.S. continue to include the blood oxygen sensing feature.