For years, Chinese hardware manufacturers have carved a market niche with Android gaming devices focused on retro emulation and game-streaming. Now, the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) is targeting Anbernic, asking the US Trade Representative to add the company to its "Notorious Markets" list. The ESA argues Anbernic devices are routinely shipped with removable memory cards preloaded with hundreds or thousands of unauthorized game copies.
While Anbernic does not preload ROMs on its own website, the group claims devices sold through retail channels normalize hardware-based piracy. This designation, termed "superfake," applies to high-quality counterfeit goods on a commercial scale. Inclusion on the list would not bring direct legal consequences but encourages authorities to combat piracy and could presage a Section 301 investigation leading to import controls.
Source: Ars Technica · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing