Apple stops selling newest Apple Watch after White House didn't overturn ban

Apple stopped selling its newest watch on Tuesday after the White House declined to overturn a US International Trade Commission ruling banning the watches from being sold due to patent violations. 

The executive branch could have reviewed the decision impacting the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 models up until Christmas Day, but it did not take any action.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai's office said, "After careful consultations, Ambassador Tai decided not to reverse the ITC’s determination and the ITC’s decision became final on December 26, 2023," according to CNN. 

The ban comes after the U.S. International Trade Commission said in October that Apple violated medical device maker Masimo's patent with the watch's blood-oxygen reader. 

Apple said it is considering both legal and technical responses to allow the watches to continue being sold.

"At Apple, we work tirelessly to create products and services that meaningfully impact users' lives. It’s what drives our teams — Clinical, Design and Engineering — to dedicate years to developing scientifically validated health, fitness and wellness features for Apple Watch," Apple said. "We strongly disagree with the USITC decision and resulting exclusion order, and are taking all measures to return Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to customers in the U.S. as soon as possible."

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