Qualcomm Seeks Import Ban on Some Apple iPhones

Qualcomm International filed a complaint against Apple asking the International Trade Commission to begin a Tariffs Act Section 337 investigation into allegations that certain Apple smartphones and tablets are being imported in violation of Qualcomm patents. Qualcomm's Thursday complaint alleges Apple uses its chips in some of its products, but in others, including some versions of the iPhone 7, Apple chooses not to use Qualcomm chips but still copies Qualcomm’s patented technologies. The chips enable “numerous important features” on the iPhone including better battery life, increased network speeds and improved graphics, Qualcomm said. The chip company seeks a limited exclusion and cease and desist orders banning import and sale of infringing devices by Apple. The ITC is seeking comment by July 20, it said in Wednesday's Federal Register. Apple didn't comment Tuesday or Wednesday.