The U.S International Trade Commission refused Apple's request for an emergency customs ban on HTC Android devices, but is reportedly examining whether redesigned phones from the Taiwanese handset maker still constitute infringement of Apple's "data detectors" patent, reports "AppleInsider" (http://www.appleinsider.com).

Apple won an import ban of HTC's Android phones in 2011; however, HTC devised a workaround. However, Apple maintains that HTC devices continue to infringe on its patents and has asked the ITC to step in and assert the injunction, notes "AppleInsider." However, the answer was "no."

In November 2010 Apple sued Motorola, alleging that the company's smartphone lineup and the operating software it uses infringe on the iPhone-maker's intellectual property. The two lawsuits came after Motorola sued Apple in October 2010 for patent infringement. Motorola claims that Apple's iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and certain Mac computers infringe Motorola patents.

Also in 2010 Apple filed a lawsuit against HTC for infringing on 20 Apple patents related to the iPhone's user interface, underlying architecture and hardware. The lawsuit was filed concurrently with the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) and in U.S. District Court in Delaware.