Consumer electronics giant Apple (AAPL) is halting sales of two versions of its smartwatch in the U.S. over a patent dispute.
Apple’s decision comes after the U.S. International Trade Commission found that the company violated patents held by medical technology company Masimo (MASI).
The ruling concerns a blood oxygen feature on certain models of the Apple Watch. Apple said it is considering whether to appeal the decision made by the trade commission.
In a statement, Apple said that it is “…taking steps to comply should the ruling stand. This includes pausing sales of Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2...”
If the order stands, the company said it would return Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to customers in the U.S.
Consumers outside the U.S. can still purchase both models of the Apple Watch, including in Canada.
For its most recent fiscal year, Apple reported smartwatch sales of $19.6 billion U.S., comprising about 5% of the company’s total revenue.
Apple’s stock has gained 57% in 2023 to trade at $195.89 U.S. per share.
