Patent Infringement Case Might Cause Another Nintendo Switch Shortage

Just when the supply problems of the Nintendo Switch have finally started to wane, another issue rears its ugly head in the form of a patent infringement case. It’s being handled by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) and it could lead to yet another shortage for the much sought-after hybrid console. The whole thing was started by allegations leveled by the company Gamevice at Nintendo.

Gamevice is basically accusing Nintendo of using technology that is present in its product called the Wikipad, which is basically a snap-on controller for smartphones, Engadget reports. Accord to the press release regarding the case, the USITC is looking into whether or not there is any credence to the claims by Gamevice that Nintendo was in violation of its patents regarding attachable gamepads for handheld devices.

“The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has voted to institute an investigation of certain portable gaming console systems with attachable handheld controllers and components thereof. The products at issue in the investigation are controller systems with parts that attach to two sides of an electronic device, such as a smartphone or tablet, and the parts fit into a user’s hands and have gaming controls,” the press release reads.

Now, it’s worth pointing out that the matter of starting an investigation does not imply that the USITC believes there is any validity to the claims by Gamevice. The agency will basically look at the evidence presented and decide on a ruling within 45 days.

In the meantime, shipment for the Switch will continue uninterrupted. It’s also unlikely that the USITC will make any kind of decision that will favor Gamevice. At least, this is the conclusion that can be drawn based on the fact that the lawsuit that the company lobbed at Nintendo was dropped shortly following its filing last year. Even so, there’s always a chance that the flow could be interrupted by this investigation.