Apple, Samsung, and Google Could Face US Import Restrictions Over Patent Dispute

The US International Trade Commission (USITC) has launched a patent investigation into Apple, Samsung, and Google. The inquiry follows a complaint by US-based BoomCloud 360, which claims several of the companies’ devices infringe on its spatial audio processing patents. If the commission rules in favor of the patent holder, the case could theoretically result in US import bans on some products.

The investigation was officially instituted by the USITC on September 16. BoomCloud filed its initial complaint on August 14 and later supplemented it with additional materials.

At the heart of the dispute are three patents — US 10,524,078, US 11,051,121, and US 11,533,560. They cover various audio processing methods, including crosstalk cancellation between stereo channels, distortion compensation, and adapting audio processing to specific hardware.

In parallel litigation, BoomCloud has targeted device categories including iPhones, iPads, and AirPods, Pixel smartphones and Pixel Buds, as well as Samsung smartphones, tablets, and audio accessories. The patent dispute is unfolding across multiple venues, with the selection of patents varying slightly between individual cases.

An import ban remains only a potential outcome

BoomCloud is asking the commission to issue a limited exclusion order that would block the importation into the US of devices found to infringe its patents. The company is also seeking cease-and-desist orders that could restrict further sales of products already imported.

However, there is currently no ban on iPhones, Galaxy devices, or Pixels. Opening an investigation merely begins the legal process, and the USITC itself emphasizes that it has not yet made any determination on whether a violation occurred.

The case will be assigned to an administrative law judge who will hold hearings and issue an initial determination. That decision will then be subject to review by the full commission. Within 45 days of initiating the probe, the USITC will also establish a target date for completing the investigation.

Even a potential import ban would not take effect immediately. USITC decisions in such cases undergo a 60-day presidential review period, during which the orders can be overturned for policy reasons.

Meanwhile, Apple, Google, and Samsung are already locked in separate court battles with BoomCloud, contesting its patent claims. As a result, proceedings are expected to move forward in parallel at the USITC and in federal court.

The case is notable for its scale, as potential restrictions could impact products from three of the world’s largest mobile hardware makers. For now, though, this remains a patent investigation and a potential future import restriction, rather than a final decision to ban device sales.