The Apple (Watch) That Fell Far From The Tree

In the US a patent infringement case involving tech giant Apple has been making headlines. The dispute has been ongoing for over three years, with Apple's opponent being Masimo, the global medical technology company.

While the Apple Watch is not normally considered a medical device, it incorporates a lot of features related to the general wellness of an individual. Health features found in different models include heart rate notifications (high/low rate, irregular rhythm), ECG app, cardio fitness notifications and fall detection.

Newer Apple Watch models can measure blood oxygen levels with a pulse oximetry sensor that uses light-based technology. Masimo claims that Apple's pulse oximetry sensor technology has purposefully infringed their patents. Apple has been disputing this issue over the last few years, but recently it appears their luck has run out.