The U.S. International Trade Commission today ruled that HTC has violated a 1999 Apple smartphone patent pertaining to how computers talk to one another The ITC ordered that HTC be banned from importing some of its products, though the ban will not commence until April 19. HTC will be allowed to import refurbished products to meet repair claims, but no new products will be allowed to enter the U.S. once ban begins. HTC may find relief if the ITC reverses its decision or if it proves a work-around can be met.