ITC Opens Section 337 Investigation Into Sonos Infringement Complaint Against Google

The International Trade Commission voted to open a Tariff Act Section 337 investigation into Sonos allegations that Google smart speakers and other devices infringe its multiroom audio patents (see 2001230001), said an investigation notice Thursday (login required) in docket 337-TA-1191. Sonos seeks a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders against the allegedly infringing products. Google has 20 days to respond. The vote Wednesday was 4-0 to open the investigation, with Commissioner Rhonda Schmidtlein, a Democrat, recusing herself. “Sonos has made misleading statements about our history of working together," emailed Google spokesperson Jose Castaneda Thursday. "Our technology and devices were designed independently. We deny their claims vigorously, and will be defending against them.” Sonos didn't comment.