Out-of-warranty Apple Watches as far as Series 6 will not be eligible for a replacement anymore after the tech company was banned from selling its smartwatches.
A memo was reportedly sent to Apple's customer service teams that they will only be able to help some Apple Watch owners via software support during the ban, Bloomberg reported.
Affected customers will be updated when hardware replacements for older models will be available again.
The hardware replacement ban is part of the US International Trade Commission's decision after ruling that Apple violated two health technology patents.
Apple Loses Appeal on Smartwatches Patent
The smartwatch provider is set to halt the sales of its Apple Watch Series and Ultra 2 in both online and physical stores in the US following the ITC ruling.
According to the ruling, Apple has infringed a patented blood oxygen sensing feature from Masimo, a US medical technology company.
The decision affects Apple Watches made since 2020, including the Series 6, 7, 8 and Ultra.
The ban will take effect on Dec. 25, Christmas Day. Ahead of that date, customers can still purchase previous Series and Ultra models in physical stores, as well as ask for hardware replacements if available.
Apple has already removed all affected models from its online store as early as Dec. 21, Thursday.
ITC's ban will remain until Apple reaches a licensing agreement with Masimo, acquires federal approval, or removes the feature.
Apple Looking for Ways to Lift Smartwatch Ban
Apple is currently working on an update on all of the affected smartwatches in an attempt to circumvent the ban.
It remains uncertain when the update will roll out. Apple must first need to issue the change to the US Customs and Border Protection for approval before the "update fix" can roll out.
Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 can still be purchased via Best Buy, Target, Walmart, and Amazon.
It is, however, expected that supplies from these retailers to run out soon following the ban implementation.
Related Article : Apple is Working on Updates to Prevent Upcoming Ban on Its Smartwatches
