In a preliminary ruling by the Chief Administrative Judge of the US International Trade Commission, Google infringed on five patents by Sonos related to streaming speakers.
Sonos alleged that Google has infringed on their patented inventions when developing streaming speakers and related technology for the Nest product range.
According to Reuters, Google 'has said Sonos repeatedly sought help during their years of partnership, and that Google eventually integrated Sonos products into its Play Music service and Google Assistant software.'
This case is one of many between Google and Sonos, including cases in California, Texas, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. The final ruling by the US ITC is expected on 13 December 2021.