The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has voted to initiate an investigation into possible patent infringement by Apple products, including iPhones, iPads and Macs.
The USITC said its investigation is based on a complaint filed by Aqua Connect Inc and Strategic Technology Partners of Orange, California. The complaint, which was filed Oct. 10, alleges that Apple products violate patents held by the two companies, the USITC said.
Aqua Connect and Strategic Technology Partners have requested that the USITC issue a temporary exclusion order and a temporary cease and desist order based on a motion for temporary relief and that the USITC ultimately issue a limited exclusion order and a cease and desist order, the USITC said. Such rulings could presumably bar Apple from importing into the U.S. products that are found to infringe the patents at issue.
Aqua Connect offers software that allows organizations to deliver macOS as a remote desktop service to users on any device.
The USITC said it would set a target date for completion of the investigation within 45 days.
Apple did not provide any comment.