# The Apple Watch Series 10: A Contentious Upgrade
Apple has always been associated with cutting-edge innovation, repeatedly pushing technological frontiers with every new launch. Yet, the unveiling of the Apple Watch Series 10 has generated debate, particularly among American users. Those considering an upgrade from the Series 6, 7, 8, or 9 will find a notable drawback: the absence of the blood oxygen measurement feature.
## The Removal of an Essential Feature
The blood oxygen measurement capability, present in Apple Watches since the Series 6, enables users to track their oxygen saturation levels—a vital health indicator, especially during respiratory challenges like COVID-19. Unfortunately, due to legal issues arising from a patent infringement lawsuit initiated by health tech firm Masimo, Apple has had to eliminate this feature from the Series 10 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in the U.S. market.
This choice has left many consumers dissatisfied, facing the dilemma of keeping a crucial health monitoring function or upgrading to a newer model with improved features. The scenario is especially disappointing for those who depended on the blood oxygen sensor for health data.
## The Legal Dispute: A Brief Summary
The origins of this controversy date back to 2013 when Apple reportedly approached Masimo to discuss a potential collaboration. Rather than forming a partnership, Masimo alleges that Apple exploited these talks to scout for potential recruits, resulting in the hiring of several prominent individuals, including Masimo’s chief medical officer.
In 2020, Masimo initiated a lawsuit against Apple, accusing the tech behemoth of misappropriating trade secrets and violating ten of its patents concerning blood oxygen sensing technology. The lawsuit sought an injunction to stop the sale of the Apple Watch, which Masimo contended was based on its proprietary technology.
A settlement was ultimately reached, allowing Apple to keep selling existing models with the blood oxygen feature, but prohibiting the addition of this capability in new watches sold in the U.S. starting January 18, 2024. The legal dispute is still ongoing, with appeals being processed; however, the current situation has left Apple Watch users in a precarious position.
## Effects on Consumers and Apple
The elimination of the blood oxygen feature from the Series 10 has attracted critique from both consumers and tech analysts. Many have voiced their discontent that a feature now standard in numerous fitness trackers is missing from Apple’s newest release. Reviews have pointed out this deficit as a major downside, with some commentators deeming it “embarrassing” for a brand of Apple’s caliber.
For current Apple Watch users, the predicament is particularly vexing. They find themselves effectively confined to their existing models if they want to keep the blood oxygen monitoring function, constraining their choices for adopting newer technology without forfeiting functionality.
## A Potential Solution: Licensing the Technology
One possible resolution to this issue could involve Apple licensing the blood oxygen sensing technology from Masimo while it continues to appeal the lawsuit. This strategy would enable Apple to retain the feature in its new watches, allowing customers to upgrade without losing functionality.
Although Masimo has publicly expressed disinterest in licensing its technology, such declarations are often part of negotiation strategies in legal conflicts. By seeking a licensing agreement, Apple could mitigate the unfavorable publicity tied to the current situation and ensure consumer satisfaction.
## Conclusion
The introduction of the Apple Watch Series 10 has illuminated the intricacies of intellectual property rights within the tech sector. While Apple persists in innovating and rolling out new features, the removal of the blood oxygen measurement functionality serves as a reminder of the challenges that can arise from legal confrontations. As this situation evolves, both Apple and its users must navigate a sphere where technological progress can occasionally be overshadowed by litigation. Whether Apple will opt to license the technology or continue its legal struggle remains uncertain, but for the time being, the Series 10 stands as a bittersweet upgrade for many users.
