Netlist Targets Micron Chips Used in Google, Nvidia AI Systems With U.S. Import Ban Request

Netlist Files New Complaint Against Micron Chips in AI Computing

Computer-memory company Netlist has filed a complaint with the U.S. International Trade Commission seeking a U.S. import ban on Micron chips used in AI computing products from major tech companies1

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. The complaint, initially filed under seal on Friday, targets Micron memory chips and products from Google Nvidia Broadcom that incorporate the disputed technology2

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. Netlist alleges that these components infringe two of its patents covering high-bandwidth memory technology, which has become critical for AI infrastructure2

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Scope of Patent Infringement Claims

The complaint specifically asks the ITC to bar imports of Micron dynamic random access memory devices, commonly known as DRAM chips, along with graphics processing units, servers, and other AI systems that incorporate what Netlist claims is its infringing technology2

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. Netlist CEO CK Hong emphasized the company's position: "Netlist has spent decades developing advanced memory technologies now used in rapidly expanding AI infrastructure. This action reflects our continued commitment to protecting our foundational technologies from unauthorised use"2

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. Spokespeople for Micron, Google, Nvidia, and Broadcom did not immediately respond to requests for comment2

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Pattern of Legal Disputes Over Memory Chips

This latest action fits within a broader legal dispute between Netlist and major semiconductor manufacturers over intellectual property rights. In 2024, Netlist won a $445 million patent infringement verdict against Micron in Marshall, Texas federal court2

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. The company filed another ITC complaint against Micron in August over memory chips used in products from Super Micro Computer, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, and Lenovo2

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. Netlist also settled a separate memory-patent dispute with Samsung in August after winning $421 million in patent verdicts against the Korean tech giant in the same Texas court2

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Implications for AI Supply Chains

The complaint targets components essential to AI infrastructure at a time when demand for AI computing capacity continues to surge. High-bandwidth memory technology enables faster data processing in AI systems, making it a critical component for companies building advanced AI capabilities3

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. If the U.S. International Trade Commission rules in Netlist's favor, it could disrupt supply chains for some of the most prominent players in AI computing. Watch how this case progresses through the ITC, as any import restrictions could force affected companies to redesign products, seek alternative suppliers, or negotiate licensing agreements with Netlist. The outcome may also influence how other memory technology companies approach intellectual property protection in the rapidly evolving AI market.