The Dyson hair tech monopoly fight

Dyson launched the Supersonic hair dryer in 2016 for over $400. This tool uses a motor in the handle to balance the device, weighing approximately 1.2 to 1.4 pounds. The engineering uses a glass bead thermistor to measure air temperature 20 times every second, ensuring the heat does not exceed 150 degrees Celsius. A wide-tooth comb, flyaway smoother, styling concentrator, gentle air attachment, and diffuser come in the box.

Dyson mastered air manipulation. The brand spent $100 million on haircare lab research and $32 million on the Corrale straightener. The Corrale uses flexing plates with active cooling to dry hair without excessive heat exposure. This new technology arrives alongside the Airsmooth dryer brush, which retails for $249 and launches on September 8. The Corrale CoolShine straightener costs $329 and hits shelves on September 15.

Dyson also released the first toothbrush, which costs $499 and uses AI-powered vision to find gaps between teeth. This tool brushes, liquid flosses, and dispenses mouthwash.

Shark and the patent defense

Shark entered the premium market with the FlexStyle, a multi-styler that uses the same Coanda effect as Dyson. The FlexStyle allows users to dry, blow out, or curl hair. It includes two barrels for left and right curling, though newer editions use one barrel that switches directions with a lever. The FlexStyle costs significantly less than the $600 Dyson Airwrap.

Dyson cannot claim a total monopoly. A legal battle between Dyson and SharkNinja ended in 2018 after Dyson voluntarily dismissed its appeal. Dyson originally sued SharkNinja in February 2014, seeking $200 million in damages and a broad injunction. The suit claimed the Shark Rocket vacuum line infringed on three U.S. design patents. Judge Robert M. Dow rejected Dyson’s theory of overall shape similarity. He ruled that the Shark Rockets have a substantially different ornamental appearance.

Shark’s FlexStyle works well as a hair dryer because it includes an adjustable diffuser. The Airwrap lacks a diffuser capable of keeping fragile curls frizz-free. The FlexStyle handle swivels into a shape resembling the number seven during drying. You might find the FlexStyle better for your budget if you have student loans or prefer to save money for other expenses.

L’Oreal and the infrared challenge

L’Oreal Professionnel challenges Dyson’s dominance with the AirLight Pro. This dryer uses infrared light technology for targeted, even heating. This technology provides a customized experience without excess heat loss. The AirLight Pro provides a faster dry time than traditional tools.

The AirLight Pro offers a competitive price point compared to other premium dryers. It underwent testing to ensure it lasts for 10 years of usage. Some users prefer the AirLight Pro because it provides zero heat damage.

Dyson’s Supersonic remains a solid choice for people who want a high-end dryer. It reduces drying time and protects gray hair from looking brassy. The magnetic attachments make it easy to swap tools without screw-in parts. However, no one needs to spend $400 on a dryer unless they truly will not miss the money. The Supersonic is not for everyone.

Patent battles in China and Europe

Dyson faces intense competition in international markets. In China, design patents for the Supersonic expired in 2024. This expiration allowed many look-alike products to flood the market on platforms like Taobao. These products resemble the Supersonic but cost much less.

The company also fights Dreame Technology over the Airwrap. Dyson filed a patent infringement action before the Unified Patent Court in May 2025. The court granted a preliminary injunction against Dreame’s Airstyle and Pocket Hair Styler in August 2025. On March 6, 2026, the UPC Court of Appeal extended the injunction, stating the redesigned Dreame products still likely infringe on Dyson’s patent EP3119235.

The dispute involves a legal question about the "anchor defendant" theory. Dyson argues that appointing an Authorized Representative in Europe allows the UPC to hear claims against non-EU manufacturers like Dreame. The Court of Justice of the European Union must now decide this issue. This ruling will affect how European courts handle overseas companies.

Will the court allow Dyson to control foreign manufacturers through local representatives?

Dyson continues to expand its lineup. The brand recently released the R3 Nurovi Spot Plus Scrub UV, a wet-and-dry robot vacuum costing $1,199. It uses a 12-point system to apply water heated to 158 degrees Fahrenheit. This tool helps remove stubborn stains using AI to identify 200 types of substances.