There has been quite a bit of news this week about HTC’s latest smartphones, the HTC One X and the HTC Evo 4G LTE. Both devices are apparently being held in US customs while they investigate whether the devices comply with a previous ITC ruling against HTC.
Now, according to the guys over at The Verge, both of the HTC devices in question are using a custom version of Android that removes the infringing items, where the ITC ruled that previous HTC devices were infringing on Apple’s patents.
Background on the ITC Ruling
The International Trade Commission (ITC) had previously found that HTC was infringing on certain Apple patents, specifically related to features like data detection and linking within the operating system. This ruling led to a ban on the importation of several HTC devices into the United States. The ITC’s decision was a significant blow to HTC, as it affected their ability to compete in the lucrative US market.
In response to the ruling, HTC has been working diligently to modify their devices to ensure compliance. The custom version of Android used in the HTC One X and HTC Evo 4G LTE is part of these efforts. By removing or altering the features that were found to infringe on Apple’s patents, HTC hopes to satisfy the ITC’s requirements and resume normal operations.
Impact on HTC and Consumers
The delay in the release of the HTC One X and HTC Evo 4G LTE due to customs holds has significant implications for both HTC and consumers. For HTC, the delay means potential lost sales and a disruption in their market strategy. The US market is crucial for smartphone manufacturers, and any delay can result in lost revenue and market share.
For consumers, the delay means waiting longer to get their hands on the latest HTC devices. The HTC One X, in particular, has been highly anticipated due to its impressive specifications, including a quad-core processor, a high-resolution display, and an advanced camera system. The HTC Evo 4G LTE also boasts similar high-end features, making it a desirable option for tech enthusiasts.
It isn’t clear as yet whether the changes made to Android on both devices will be enough to satisfy the ITC ruling, and there are still no details on how long these devices will be held by US customs. The uncertainty surrounding the situation has left many potential buyers in limbo, unsure of when they will be able to purchase these new smartphones.
In the meantime, HTC has been communicating with its customer base, assuring them that they are working closely with US customs to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. The company has also been emphasizing the steps they have taken to comply with the ITC ruling, highlighting their commitment to innovation and legal compliance.
The situation also underscores the broader challenges faced by smartphone manufacturers in navigating patent disputes and regulatory hurdles. As the smartphone market becomes increasingly competitive, companies must be vigilant in protecting their intellectual property while also ensuring they do not infringe on the patents of others.
Source The Verge
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