CBP Says Bluetooth/RF Capability Doesn't Determine Classification of iPhone Case With Separate Screen

An iPhone case that includes a separate screen that shows information like photos, boarding passes and maps from the phone sent through a Bluetooth connection isn't classified based on the Bluetooth capability, Customs and Border Protection said in an Aug. 3 ruling that was recently released. CBP responded to an advice request from a customs broker for popSLATE Media, which makes the case. The company told CBP it believes the cases are best classified based on radio transceivers as the agency classified the Apple Watch and other "smartwatches" (see 1606280059). CBP disagreed, saying "the most prominent feature" is the image display screen. That classification has a 2.6 percent duty rate. We couldn't reach popSLATE Friday.