Jury Orders Apple to Pay $634 Million for Patent Infringement
A federal jury in California has ordered Apple Inc. to pay Masimo Corporation $634 million after finding that the tech giant infringed on a patent related to blood-oxygen monitoring technology. The verdict, delivered on Friday, marks a significant legal victory for Masimo, a company specializing in medical monitoring technology.
Masimo celebrated the jury’s decision, describing it as “a significant win in our ongoing efforts to protect our innovations and intellectual property.” This ruling underscores the ongoing tensions between the two companies, particularly over the integration of Masimo’s patented technology into consumer products.
The legal dispute between Apple and Masimo has been protracted, dating back to 2023. In response to a ruling by the International Trade Commission (ITC) that found Apple’s blood-oxygen sensors violated Masimo’s patents, Apple removed this feature from the U.S. versions of its Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in January 2024. The company aimed to avoid a sales ban by offering a modified version of its flagship wearable devices.
Despite the adjustment, Apple reintroduced the blood-oxygen monitoring feature in August 2024, shortly after receiving approval from U.S. Customs and Border Protection for the importation of the devices. This decision prompted Masimo to challenge Apple again in court, citing the ongoing patent infringement issues stemming from the 2023 case.
The financial implications of the jury’s ruling are significant. According to financial reports, Apple stocks have experienced an increase of 11.71% year-to-date, while Masimo shares have decreased by 10.35% during the same period. This discrepancy highlights the contrasting fortunes of the two companies as they navigate this legal landscape.
As the case continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how this ruling will affect Apple’s product offerings and market strategy moving forward. The outcome may also influence future patent disputes in the technology and healthcare sectors, as companies strive to protect their innovations in an increasingly competitive environment.
The ongoing battle between Apple and Masimo serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in intellectual property rights, particularly in industries where technology and health intersect. With both companies committed to defending their positions, the implications of this case will likely resonate beyond the courtroom.
