I recently rediscovered a Best Buy gift card buried in the back of my wallet, probably hiding there since Christmas. I have determined the best way to spend it is on a shiny new flat screen TV. Frankly it's almost embarrassing when friends come over and see my 19" Cathode Ray TV/VCR combo. Until I pop in their favorite movie on VHS, that is.
Looks like I won't be able to purchase a shiny new Sharp Aquos with my giftcard.
The US International Trade Commission has upheld a ban on imports of Sharp LCD screens and monitors. Competitor Samsung is claiming that Sharp is using their patented invention:
"In a notice posted on its Web site today, the ITC said unlicensed Sharp LCD devices, including display panels and modules, and LCD televisions made overseas that use Samsung's patented invention should be banned from the U.S.
In its complaint, filed in December, Samsung named models in the Aquos line of high-definition TVs as among those made and sold by Sharp that violated the patent.
The ban is subject to review by President Obama, and the underlying patent case can be appealed to a U.S. court that specializes in patent law."
The ban specifically relates to the patent referred to as "Liquid Crystal Display having wide viewing angle.” The commission has not yet issued a final ruling, but the Sharp Aquos may soon be in short supply here in the US - time to stock up?
Import Compliance Solutions
Automate import compliance and stay ahead of import bans. Ensure accurate duties, quickly classify products, and pre-clear shipments.
