In an unexpected turn of events, Apple has announced it will be pausing U.S. sales of its latest smartwatch models – the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2. With days left of holiday shopping, potential customers are advised to act quickly as the pause is due to start this week.

The surprise decision follows Apple’s loss in an intellectual property dispute. At the crux of the issue is the patented blood oxygen sensor included in the watch’s health features, which Apple is accused of stealing. The pause goes into partial effect immediately, although the full extent of its impact will be felt soon.

Despite the halt, potential buyers can still get their hands on Apple’s Watch SE, which remains available in the U.S. market. It’s also noteworthy that now could be the ideal moment to make savings on Apple’s latest watches since the stopping of sales is just around the corner.

Looking forward, Apple will seek to resolve the ongoing patent disputes surrounding the health features of its flagship watches, to ensure the Series 9 and Ultra 2 can return to the market.

To summarise, seize the opportunity for savings on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 as imminent sales halt looms, due to a patent dispute, while the Watch SE continues to be available for purchase.