Another major patent infringement battle is making headlines around the world, and this time some of the biggest names in the appliance industry are involved — Whirlpool, Samsung, LG, Midea, and Haier. Whirlpool has filed complaints against all these companies, its named as Whirlpool vs Samsung LG patent case, accusing them of using technology and designs that allegedly belong to Whirlpool. And it’s not a small issue either — the dispute involves five different patents. This case is a clear example of how seriously companies protect their patented technology and how competitive the market has become. Keep reading to understand what’s happening in this case and stay updated on the latest IP news from India and around the world.
How Did the Patent Conflict Between Whirlpool and Asian Appliance Giants Start?
To understand the Whirlpool vs Samsung LG patent case better, we first need to look at how it actually started — and why. The dispute began when Whirlpool noticed something unusual: Samsung, LG, Haier and other major appliance brands were selling low-profile microwave-hood combination units that looked strikingly similar to Whirlpool’s own products. Whirlpool had spent years developing this technology and securing five different patents that cover various parts of the design. The company says it was the only one offering this kind of microwave in the U.S. until these rival models appeared. Things escalated on November 18, 2025, when Whirlpool filed a complaint with the U.S. International Trade Commission. According to Whirlpool, these companies used its patented technology without permission, sparking this major international patent dispute.
In the lawsuit, Whirlpool is asking for a few major actions against all the companies involved, such as:
- First, they want the U.S. International Trade Commission to issue exclusion orders, which would basically block these brands from importing or selling the microwaves that allegedly infringe Whirlpool’s patents.
- On top of that, Whirlpool has filed separate federal lawsuits demanding financial damages for both past and ongoing infringement.
- They may also push for permanent injunctions, which would force the companies to stop making or selling any products that use Whirlpool’s patented technology—unless they redesign the microwaves or get a proper license.
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What Is the Current Court Status of the Whirlpool vs. Samsung LG Patent Case?
Right now, the Whirlpool vs Samsung LG patent case is still in its early stages, so there haven’t been any big court decisions yet. The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has officially received Whirlpool’s complaint and is reviewing it—this is the usual first step before it decides whether to launch a full investigation. It doesn’t guarantee anything, but it does show the complaint is being treated seriously. Over in Texas and New Jersey, the federal courts have also accepted Whirlpool’s filings, and the accused companies will soon have to respond. There haven’t been any rulings or hearings so far, but the case is entering the formal review stage, where both sides start putting their evidence and arguments on the table.
Conclusion
In the Whirlpool vs Samsung LG patent case, Whirlpool’s fight against Samsung, LG, Midea, and Haier highlights just how competitive—and patent-driven—the appliance industry has become. With five patents at the centre of the dispute and both ITC and federal court actions underway, this case could have major consequences for microwave imports in the U.S. Although it’s still early, the outcome will shape how companies protect their designs and how strictly patent rights are enforced in global markets. For now, all eyes are on the investigation to see which direction the case moves next.
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