Next Apple Watch Ban? ITC Probes Fall Detection Tech

ITC fall detection investigation has been launched into Apple, Garmin, and Samsung smartwatches, following UnaliWear patent infringement complaint. The lawsuit is filed over the fall detection feature by UnaliWear, maker of the Kanega watch. Rarely-known UnaliWear makes safety wearables for older citizens that send out emergency alerts for falls. The US International Trade Commission has finally launched an investigation into big wearable companies.

UnaliWear has made allegations that Apple, Garmin, and Samsung used its patented fall-detection technology without prior licensing. The Texas-based company is seeking a complete ban on sales and imports of models that use fall-detection technology.

What is Fall Detection Technology?

UnaliWear has claimed that several wearable companies have infringed its patented fall detection technology. But what is fall detection technology, and how does it help smartwatch users? UnaliWear wearable products have a RealFall feature that allows the device to differentiate between real falls and daily movements. 

Elder people with weak bones and poor eyesight are more prone to serious injuries because of falls. RealFall feature sends out alerts to the connected devices, which allows you to monitor your parents even if you are in a different place at that moment. Many smartwatches also have this feature, allegedly stolen, which can be useful for children as well as adults.

Is Ban Coming for Big Wearable Names?

For now, the investigation has been launched against the named companies, and they have to share reports by the end of January. The case can take upto an year to conclude and reach a final verdict. If UnaliWear wins, Apple, Garmin, and Samsung will face a major setback as it will ban them from importing their popular models in the US. Additionally, UnaliWear has filed cases in several US district courts, which will hit Apple and other companies with a financial setback if lost.

Devices that have fall-detection technology include Apple Watch Series 11, Pixel Watch 4, and Garmin Fenix 8, some of the most popular smartwatches.

Is Apple Falling Again in The Same Dig?

ITC fall-detection investigation comes under Section 337 of the Tariff Act. Masimo used the same lawsuit for the sales ban of Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 in December 2023. The lawsuit was filed over infringement of a patented blood oxygen sensor. If Apple fails again, the company needs some core changes in developing advanced features.