Apple, Samsung, Google Face US Audio Patent Probe Over Spatial Tech

A US audio patent probe has been launched against Apple, Samsung, and Google by the International Trade Commission (ITC), following a complaint from BoomCloud 360. The company claims that the tech giants infringed on three of its patents covering audio technologies used in devices imported into or sold in the US.

The patents cover audio features including stereo speaker enhancement, dynamic audio processing, and spatial audio technology designed to reduce crosstalk and sound distortion. Spatial audio features are used across the companies' device portfolios, including Apple's iPhones, iPad, and AirPods products, Samsung's Galaxy smartphones, tablets, and Galaxy Buds, and Google's Pixel handsets and Pixel Buds.

BoomCloud 360 is seeking a limited exclusion order and cease-and-desist orders that could potentially impact the US sales and import of affected devices. The ITC has not yet determined whether the companies infringed on the patents, but they have 20 days to respond after receiving the complaint and notice of investigation.

Apple, Google, and Samsung are already pursuing preemptive litigation against BoomCloud in US federal courts. Apple filed a declaratory action of non-infringement against BoomCloud 360 on August 5, stating it is 'a pioneer in the design of consumer electronics products' and adding that it 'requests the relief sought by its complaint'. Google followed with a similar action on August 18.