The United States International Trade Commission has launched an investigation into Apple, Google, and Samsung following a patent complaint filed by BoomCloud 360. The dispute centers on three patents related to spatial audio technologies, including gain adjustment, speaker asymmetry compensation, and crosstalk processing.
BoomCloud 360, a California-based audio technology firm, submitted its initial complaint on August 14, 2026, and provided an amendment on August 31. The company is seeking an import ban and a cease-and-desist order, which could potentially block the sale of various devices, including headphones, smartphones, and televisions, within the United States.
The investigation covers products featuring spatial audio support, such as the AirPods 5 and Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra. While the USITC probe is currently underway, it does not confirm patent infringement. Meanwhile, Apple, Google, and Samsung have initiated counter-lawsuits against BoomCloud 360 in federal courts.
