Apple's Request to Overturn $634 Million Masimo Verdict Denied
N.R. Finch
A California federal judge denied Apple's motion to overturn a $634 million jury verdict in Masimo's Apple Watch blood-oxygen patent case, locking in the damages and raising the legal stakes for Apple's wearable health features.
What is this lawsuit actually about?
Masimo sued Apple for infringing its pulse oximetry patents — technology that measures blood oxygen levels using light.
The disputed feature is Apple Watch's blood-oxygen sensor, which Masimo claims relies on its patented technology.
A jury had already found Apple liable and awarded $634 million in damages.
Why did the judge reject Apple's request?
Apple asked Judge James to overturn the jury's verdict; the judge denied the motion outright.
This means → the court found no clear error in the jury's factual findings, and the $634 million award stands.
In plain terms = Apple asked the judge to overrule the jury's answer; the judge said the answer was sound.
What comes next for Apple?
The $634 million liability is now more firmly established; Apple's legal room to maneuver has narrowed.
Apple may still file an appeal, but the bar for reversal is higher after this ruling.
This reflects a gap in Apple's patent positioning around wearable health features — and similar disputes may follow.
Content is for reference only, not financial advice.