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| Garmin and Samsung smartwatches (Galaxy Watch 8 pictured) are affected by the investigation |
A new investigation by a powerful U.S. trade body has put some of the biggest names in wearable technology on notice, potentially threatening the availability of popular smartwatches and a crucial safety feature used by millions.
The United States International Trade Commission (USITC) has officially launched a probe into whether several tech giants, including Apple, Garmin, Google, and Samsung, are infringing on patented fall detection technology. The patent in question is held by UnaliWear, a company relatively unknown to consumers but which claims to own foundational intellectual property for a life-saving feature now considered standard on many wearables.
The Heart of the Investigation: A Standard Safety Feature
Fall detection has become a key selling point for modern smartwatches, particularly those marketed for health and safety. The technology uses built-in sensors to detect a sudden, hard fall. If the user is unresponsive to an alert after a set time, the device can automatically contact emergency services or a designated contact.
According to the complaint, UnaliWear alleges that its patented methods for this technology are being used without license by the named manufacturers. The USITC’s investigation will determine if there is a violation of Section 337 of the Tariff Act, which concerns unfair practices in import trade, specifically patent infringement.
The Commission has been clear that this is a preliminary step. In its official news release announcing the investigation, it stated, "The USITC has not made any decision on the merits of the case." It also outlined that the chief administrative law judge will schedule an evidentiary hearing, with a target to complete the investigation within 45 days.
What’s at Stake? Potential Import Bans and Market Disruption
A finding in favor of UnaliWear could lead to severe consequences for the accused companies. The USITC’s primary remedy is the issuance of Limited Exclusion Orders, which could block the importation of infringing smartwatches into the United States. It could also issue Cease and Desist Orders to stop the sale and distribution of already-imported inventory.
This isn't hypothetical. Apple recently navigated a similar USITC investigation over blood-oxygen sensor technology, which resulted in a temporary import ban on certain Apple Watch models before a workaround was implemented. The specter of such bans now looms over a core feature of devices like the Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch, Google Pixel Watch, and Garmin models.
For consumers, this investigation introduces uncertainty. A flagship device like the 47mm Garmin Fenix 8, which currently retails for around $900 on Amazon and prominently features fall detection, could theoretically be affected by any future exclusion order.
The Road Ahead and Global Implications
The named companies have not yet made detailed public statements regarding the investigation but are expected to vigorously defend their technology. The legal process will be lengthy; a final decision from the full Commission is not expected for many months.
While the USITC’s jurisdiction is limited to the United States, its rulings carry significant weight. A U.S. import ban on major smartwatch lines would create global supply chain ripples and force manufacturers to consider costly redesigns or licensing agreements.
For now, the smartwatch market continues as usual, but the industry is watching closely. This case underscores the intense, behind-the-scenes battles over intellectual property in the competitive wearable tech space—a battle that could ultimately impact which features remain on your wrist and at what cost.
The USITC’s notice of investigation, “Certain Wearable Devices and Systems, Components Thereof, and Products Containing the Same,” can be found on its website.