Copyright Infringement

[ltj2457]

We are considering buying two-way radios from China to sell here in the states. The radios, electronically, are copied from a radio that Kenwood makes. You can even use Kenwoods software, even though they supply you with software to program the radios. Physically the radios do not look like Kenwood but do use the same accessories, which are sold aftermarket by accessory manufacturers.

The obvious question is: Can we legally sell these radios in the states?

 

[Michael Wechsler]

From my experience, items from China were more frequently suspect of being unlawful copies (violation of IP rights) than those imported from other countries - not to say that it is the case here or in doing business with China. Having an agreement that the manufacturer warrants and represents that they have the rights to sell what they do and that they will not violate any law typically helps but not much of a remedy against an international company in China.

I can't tell you whether or not you'll get hit with the sale of illegal copies of Kenwood's products but you might want to discuss the issue with the manufacturer. This is a fact specific issue and you have to do some research on the specific product. If the product is just compatible with Kenwood accessories then you are more likely not to have a problem. There should be no issue if you make a radio that is also compatible with a headphone that uses an iPhone headphone plug. Best of luck...