If two of the newest Apple Watches are on your shopping list, don’t delay any longer because the devices won’t be available for purchase in the U.S. until this weekend unless the White House intervenes in an international patent dispute. .
Apple plans to suspend U.S. online sales of the Series 9 and Ultra 2 versions of its popular watch on Thursday afternoon and in-store sales on Sunday. The move stems from the International Trade Commission’s (ITC) decision in October to restrict the blood oxygen measurement feature on Apple watches as part of an intellectual property dispute with medical technology company Masimo.
The White House had 60 days to review the ITC order, which was issued on October 26, meaning Apple could continue selling the two affected models in the US until Christmas. But the Cupertino company said Monday that it paused sales early to make sure it complied with the ITC’s order.
If ITC’s sales ban is not lifted, Apple has pledged to “take all measures” to resume sales of Series 9 and Ultra 2 models in the US as soon as possible.
Apple Watch SE, which does not have a blood oxygen feature, will continue to be sold in the US after Christmas Eve. Previously purchased Apple Watches with blood oxygen measurement feature will not be affected by ITC’s decision.