Roku Loses Challenge Over Universal Electronics’ Remote Patent

Roku’s challenge of a Universal Electronics Inc. patent covering technology for universal remote controls fell short Friday at the Federal Circuit.

A split three-judge panel affirmed an administrative tribunal’s decision rejecting Roku’s attack on the validity of US Patent No. 9,716,853. The patent covers a universal remote control device, specifically its engine that it claims more efficiently connects to different electronic devices like DVD players and television sets via different communication methods, according to the opinion.

Roku argued that the innovation described in Universal’s patent would’ve been obvious based on an earlier universal remote patent, and, therefore, it shouldn’t ...