Apple alters Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 to evade import ban in the US

Apple plans to bypass an import ban on Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in the US by removing the Blood Oxygen app, a feature central to a patent dispute with Masimo.

The US Customs and Border Protection approved Apple's redesign, stating it falls outside the import ban's scope. While Apple has already shipped modified units, their sale awaits approval.

This move follows an October ruling that Apple violated Masimo patents, prompting a temporary halt in sales.