Categories
News

Apple Watch Pulse Oximetry Can Be Reactivated Through Software in 2028 or With Successful Appeal

[ad_1]

Apple has been selling the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 without the blood oxygen monitoring feature in the U.S. since mid-January, and while we’ve suspected Apple would be able to reintroduce pulse oximetry in models that lack it through a future software update, new information from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confirms that reactivation is indeed a possibility. As a recap, Apple was found to be infringing on patented pulse oximetry technology owned by Masimo, and was banned from importing the ‌Apple Watch Series 9‌ and Ultra 2 into the U.S.

apple watch ultra yellow
The original January 12 order from CBP that allowed Apple to bring Apple Watch models with a disabled sensor in the United States was published recently (via ip fray), and it gives some insight into how Apple disabled pulse oximetry. While some of the order is redacted, Apple implemented a fix that turns off pulse oximetry when an Apple Watch is paired to an iPhone. Blood oxygen sensing becomes inaccessible to the user, and opening the blood oxygen app gives a warning that the feature is not available. Apple said that it hardcoded each Apple Watch at the factory with new software.

As part of the process to get approval to sell ‌Apple Watch Series 9‌ and Ultra 2 models without pulse oximetry enabled, Apple had to provide the code disabling the feature and test devices to Masimo. Masimo didn’t want Apple to have such an easy fix, so it paired the “redesigned” Apple Watches with a jailbroken ‌iPhone‌ running an older version of iOS, and was able to get pulse oximetry working.

Masimo tried to argue that activating pulse oximetry through a jailbroken phone meant Apple had not effectively removed the feature and the devices should not be allowed to be imported in to the U.S. Masimo also tried to say that jailbreaking is “permissible, common, and readily known,” but Masimo’s arguments were unsuccessful. The Exclusion Order Enforcement Branch of the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol ultimately decided that disabling pulse oximetry in the ‌Apple Watch Series 9‌ and Ultra 2 was enough to avoid infringing on Masimo patents, allowing those models to be offered for sale at Apple retail stores in the U.S.

Because Masimo was able to get blood oxygen sensing working using software on a jailbroken ‌iPhone‌, Apple too would be able to reactivate the blood oxygen sensor in the models where it has been disabled through a software update. When no longer subject to an import ban, Apple will be able to reintroduce blood oxygen sensing for ‌Apple Watch Series 9‌ and ‌Apple Watch Ultra 2‌ users who are not able to access the feature.

As noted by ip fray, the patents that Apple was found to have infringed on expire in August of 2028, which means that Apple will be able to re-enable pulse oximetry in affected models at that time. Apple filed an appeal with the United States International Trade Commission to attempt to get the ruling overturned, so if the appeal is successful, Apple could be able to re-add blood oxygen sensing sooner.

Apple could also opt to settle with Masimo and work out a licensing deal, but at this point, it doesn’t sound like that is going to happen. Masimo CEO Joe Kiani said in January that he had not spoken with Apple, and while he would be open to settling, an apology and an “honest dialogue” would need to be part of any settlement discussion.

Kiani has maligned the Apple Watch blood oxygen sensor several times, saying that customers are “better off without” the feature because it is not a “reliable, medical pulse oximeter.”

The ‌Apple Watch Series 9‌ and Ultra 2 only have disabled blood oxygen sensing capabilities in the United States, as the ban is not applicable in other countries. The Apple Watches remain fully functional outside of the U.S.

[ad_2]

Source Article Link

Categories
News

PlayStation Pulse Elite PS5 wireless headset

PlayStation Pulse Elite wireless headset

Sony has recently unveiled a new wireless headset that promises to transform the way PlayStation 5 users experience sound in their games. The Pulse Elite Wireless Headset is designed to work in harmony with the PS5’s advanced Tempest 3D AudioTech, offering players a deeply immersive audio experience that makes every game feel more realistic.

The Pulse Elite is equipped with planar magnetic drivers, which are celebrated for their precise sound reproduction. This means that every explosion, whisper, and footstep in your games will be heard with crystal-clear quality. The headset’s high-fidelity audio ensures that whether you’re in the middle of an action-packed scene or exploring quiet in-game landscapes, the sound will be incredibly detailed and lifelike.

PS Pulse Elite wireless headset microphone

One of the standout features of the Pulse Elite is its ability to connect not only to the PS5 but also to a wide range of other devices. Whether you’re using a PC, a Mac, or any Bluetooth-enabled device, the headset’s PlayStation Link capability allows you to enjoy its superior sound quality. This makes the Pulse Elite a versatile choice for both gaming and other media consumption.

PlayStation Pulse Elite

Sony has put a strong focus on customization with this headset. When connected to the PS5, users can tweak 3D audio settings and adjust the sidetone volume to their liking. You can even personalize the headset with a custom name, using a selection of letters, symbols, and emojis. For those who may only use one earcup, Mono Audio support ensures that no sound detail is missed.

Sony PS5 wireless headset

The Pulse Elite also features a retractable boom microphone that comes with AI Noise Rejection technology. This advanced feature helps to eliminate background noise, ensuring that your voice is heard clearly during multiplayer games or calls. The headset’s design includes a convenient charging hanger, which not only adds a stylish touch but also makes storing and charging the headset a breeze.

Switching between devices is made simple with the PlayStation Link feature. You can move from playing on your PS5 to using a PlayStation Portal or a PC/Mac without any interruption, and your customized equalizer settings will follow you, providing a consistent audio experience no matter where you play.

Sony’s new Pulse Elite Wireless Headset is a significant enhancement for the PS5 gaming setup. It combines top-notch wireless audio, cutting-edge driver technology, and a wide array of customization options to cater to the preferences of different users. The inclusion of an AI Noise Rejection microphone and a convenient charging hanger demonstrates Sony’s attention to the practical needs of gamers. With the introduction of the Pulse Elite, Sony continues to deliver sophisticated and dynamic audio solutions that elevate the gaming experience on its platform.

Sony PS5 Pulse Elite wireless headset

Filed Under: Gaming News, Playstation, Top News





Latest timeswonderful Deals

Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, timeswonderful may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.