US launches patent probe into ZTE  

美国对中兴等公司消费电子产品等发起“337调查”

[File photo]

Washington (CNS) -- The US International Trade Commission on Thursday has voted to institute an investigation into some consumer electronics.

Five telecom companies, including Japan's Panasonic and Toshiba and ZTE from China, are involved in the probe.

The investigation involves consumer electronics with display and processing capabilities, including computer laptops, netbooks, tablet computers, PCs, television sets, HD camcorders and Blu-ray and DVD players.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed by Graphics Properties Holdings, Inc, of New Rochelle, NY, on May 17. The complaint alleges that the sale of certain consumer electronics with display and processing capabilities has infringed on patents.

The commission said it will make a final determination soon, and it will set a target date for completing the investigation within 45 days of the launch.

The United States launched similar investigations into wireless devices from ZTE and Huawei last year.

Should the complaint be approved, the panel will issue remedial orders, such as a ban on importing the products.