The tech accessory brand Casetify has filed a lawsuit against the popular YouTube channel JerryRigEverything and the skin maker dbrand for allegedly infringing its patent on a magnetic kickstand case for the Steam Deck, a handheld gaming device from Valve.
According to the lawsuit, Casetify owns a patent for a “magnetic kickstand case for electronic devices” that was granted in 2021. The patent covers a case that has a magnetic kickstand that can be attached and detached from the back of the device, allowing the user to adjust the viewing angle and position of the device.
Casetify alleges that JerryRigEverything and dbrand have violated its patent by launching a similar product called Project Killswitch, a custom case for the Steam Deck that also features a magnetic kickstand. Casetify claims that Project Killswitch is a “direct copy” of its patented invention and that JerryRigEverything and dbrand have “willfully and deliberately” infringed its patent rights.
Casetify is seeking an injunction to stop JerryRigEverything and dbrand from selling, distributing, or promoting Project Killswitch, as well as damages, attorney fees, and costs. Casetify is also demanding that JerryRigEverything and dbrand destroy all infringing products and materials.
JerryRigEverything and dbrand deny the allegations and vow to fight back
JerryRigEverything and dbrand have responded to the lawsuit by denying the allegations and vowing to fight back. They claim that Casetify’s patent is invalid and unenforceable, and that Project Killswitch does not infringe it.
JerryRigEverything and dbrand argue that Casetify’s patent is invalid because it is not novel or non-obvious, and that it is based on prior art that existed before Casetify filed its patent application. They cite several examples of magnetic kickstand cases for other devices, such as the iPad, the Nintendo Switch, and the Surface Pro, that were available in the market before Casetify’s patent.
JerryRigEverything and dbrand also contend that Project Killswitch does not infringe Casetify’s patent because it has significant differences in design and functionality. They point out that Project Killswitch has a different shape, size, and material than Casetify’s case, and that it has additional features, such as a travel cover, stick grips, tempered glass, and a case skin.
JerryRigEverything and dbrand have expressed their confidence in their legal position and their intention to defend themselves in court. They have also accused Casetify of trying to stifle innovation and competition in the tech accessory industry.
The lawsuit could have implications for the Steam Deck market
The lawsuit between Casetify and JerryRigEverything and dbrand could have implications for the Steam Deck market, as it could affect the availability and variety of accessories for the device. The Steam Deck is a highly anticipated handheld gaming device that is expected to launch in early 2023. It is designed to run PC games and has a 7-inch touchscreen, a built-in controller, and a dock for connecting to a TV or monitor.
The Steam Deck has attracted a lot of interest from gamers and tech enthusiasts, who are eager to customize and enhance their experience with the device. However, the device also poses some challenges, such as its weight, battery life, and cooling system, that could benefit from accessory solutions.
Casetify, JerryRigEverything, and dbrand are among the first companies to offer cases for the Steam Deck, and they have different approaches and target audiences. Casetify is known for its colorful and personalized cases, JerryRigEverything is known for its durability and reliability tests, and dbrand is known for its sleek and minimalist skins.
The outcome of the lawsuit could determine which of these companies can continue to offer their products to the Steam Deck users, and how they can differentiate themselves from each other and from potential competitors. It could also set a precedent for future patent disputes in the tech accessory industry.
