The United States International Trade Commission (USITC) launched an investigation, numbered 337-TA-1521, on September 16. The probe targets Apple, Samsung, and Google regarding alleged infringements of audio-related patents.
The complainant, California-based BoomCloud 360, filed the initial complaint on August 14, 2026, followed by supplemental materials on August 31. The dispute centers on three specific patents covering spatial audio processing, speaker asymmetry compensation, and crosstalk management.
BoomCloud 360 has requested that the USITC issue a limited exclusion order and a cease-and-desist order. These measures aim to restrict the import and sale of the accused devices within the United States.
The list of affected products includes upcoming hardware such as the Apple AirPods 5 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra. If the requested orders are granted, the availability of these devices in the American market could be significantly impacted.
