As Apple Stores across the US begin closing for the day, Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 sales are officially in effect. Apple removed its flagship Apple Watches from its online store on Thursday, and now they’re also being removed from the Apple Store.
When Apple stores reopen after Christmas on December 26, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 9 will not be available.
The ban on Apple Watch sales comes as part of a long-running patent dispute between Apple and medical device company Masimo. ITC ruled in October that the blood oxygen sensors of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 infringe two Masimo patents.
After the ITC decision, the case was sent to the Biden administration for a 60-day presidential review period. This time, President Biden could veto the ruling but has so far chosen not to act. The presidential review period officially ends after Dec 25, so it’s still possible that President Biden will choose to intervene and veto the ITC decision at the last minute.