Apple fans looking for a deal on an Apple Watch Ultra 2 or Series 9 might be in luck soon. The tech giant appears to be gearing up to sell refurbished models of these high-end smartwatches on its US online store for the first time.
This news comes after Apple added grayed-out labels for both the Ultra 2 and Series 9 on its refurbished website. While an official launch date hasn't been announced, this move typically precedes Apple making new refurbished models available for purchase.
However, there's a bit of a snag. Due to an ongoing legal battle with medical tech company Masimo over blood oxygen sensor patents, it's expected that the Blood Oxygen app will be deactivated on these refurbished watches.
As a refresher, the US International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled in October 2023 that Apple Watch models with blood oxygen sensing infringed on Masimo's patents. This resulted in a ban on Apple importing and selling these watches in the US. Apple subsequently stopped selling refurbished Series 7 and Series 8 models, which also feature the Blood Oxygen app.
There are a couple of possibilities for how this situation might play out. Apple and Masimo could reach a settlement before the launch of refurbished Ultra 2 and Series 9 models, allowing Apple to activate the Blood Oxygen app. Alternatively, even if no settlement is reached, a future watchOS update could potentially re-enable the feature if the legal battle is resolved in Apple's favor.
It's worth noting that the first-generation Apple Watch Ultra has never been available for purchase as a refurbished model in the US, although it is offered in other regions like the UK and China. Since the ITC's ruling only applies to the US, the Blood Oxygen app remains functional on Apple Watch models sold in other countries.
Apple enthusiasts looking for a refurbished Ultra 2 or Series 9 will likely need to wait a bit longer for official details on availability. However, the addition of these models to the refurbished website suggests a launch is imminent. Just be aware that the Blood Oxygen app situation remains uncertain for the time being.
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