Apple Wins Mixed Verdict in Patent Infringement Case Against Masimo
In a closely watched patent infringement lawsuit, tech giant Apple and medical device maker Masimo received a mixed verdict from a federal jury. The case, which centered on smartwatch technology, resulted in Apple being awarded a nominal $250 as a statutory remedy for Masimo’s infringement.
The jury found that Masimo had infringed on several of Apple’s patents related to smartwatch technology. The products at the center of the dispute included Masimo’s W1 smartwatch, Freedom smartwatch, health module, and charger. Notably, the jury determined that Masimo’s infringement was willful, potentially opening the door for enhanced damages.
Despite the finding in Apple’s favor, the Cupertino-based company sought only the statutory minimum damages of $250. Apple’s attorney, John Desmarais, emphasized that the case was not about monetary compensation, stating, “This case was never about money for Apple.”
This verdict comes in the wake of an earlier ruling by the International Trade Commission (ITC) against Apple, which impacted the sales of Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the United States. The ongoing legal battles between the two companies have had tangible effects on product offerings, with the newly launched Apple Watch Series 10 notably lacking blood oxygen features.
The mixed verdict highlights the complex nature of patent disputes in the rapidly evolving wearable technology sector. As both companies continue to innovate in the health-focused smartwatch market, the outcome of this case may have far-reaching implications for future product development and intellectual property strategies in the industry.
