ITC investigates Apple for Flash Memory Patent Violation

The International Trade Commission is investigating Apple for a possible flash memory patent violation after BTG International, the patent holder, filed a claim.

Quote:
The complaint alleges that (the companies) unlawfully import into the U.S., sell for importation, and sell within the U.S. after importation certain MLC flash memory chips and products containing the same, which allegedly infringe BTG’s U.S. Patent Nos. 5,394,362, 5,764,571, 5,872,735, 6,104,640, and 6,118,692,

Specifically the patents "relate to methods and apparatuses for programming and reading Flash memory cells that store more than a single bit of information per cell;” which Apple has implemented in ALL of its current iPods and iPhones except for the iPod Classic.

BTG International is requesting the the International Trade Commission orders that chips and products that have chips that violate the patents are barred from importation into the US. BTG International is also lobbying for a cease and desist..