Find HS Code and trade information for game consoles

Game Consoles

Game consoles are electronic devices designed for playing video games on a television or dedicated display. They typically consist of a central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), storage, and input/output interfaces. Unlike personal computers, game consoles are generally dedicated solely to gaming and associated multimedia functions.

History

The first home video game console, the Magnavox Odyssey, was released in 1972. The industry saw significant growth in the late 1970s and early 1980s with systems like the Atari 2600 and the Intellivision. A market crash in 1983 temporarily halted progress, but Nintendo revitalized the industry with the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1985. Subsequent generations have seen competition between companies like Sega, Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo, driving innovation in graphics, processing power, and online capabilities.

Purpose and Function

The primary purpose of a game console is to provide an interactive gaming experience. Functionality includes:

• Game Execution: Loading and running game software, typically from physical cartridges or digital downloads.
• Graphics Rendering: Displaying visuals on a connected display, ranging from 2D sprites to complex 3D environments.
• Audio Output: Providing sound effects, music, and dialogue.
• Input Processing: Receiving commands from controllers, allowing players to interact with the game.
• Networking: Connecting to the internet for online multiplayer gaming, digital storefronts, and software updates.
• Media Playback: Many consoles support playback of DVDs, Blu-rays, and streaming services.

Usage Scenarios

• Home Entertainment: The most common scenario, played individually or with family and friends.
• Multiplayer Gaming: Consoles facilitate both local (split-screen) and online multiplayer experiences.
• Competitive Gaming (Esports): Certain games on consoles are popular in competitive esports scenes.
• Virtual Reality (VR): Some consoles support VR headsets for immersive gaming experiences.
• Streaming and Content Consumption: Many consoles now function as entertainment hubs, offering access to streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+.

Common Types & Generations

Game consoles are categorized by generation, reflecting advancements in technology. Here's a brief overview:

• First Generation (1972-1977): Magnavox Odyssey, Atari Pong. Simple, dedicated consoles with limited game variety.
• Second Generation (1977-1983): Atari 2600, Intellivision. Cartridge-based systems with more diverse game libraries.
• Third Generation (1983-1990): Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Sega Master System. Revitalized the industry with 8-bit graphics.
• Fourth Generation (1988-1996): Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Sega Genesis/Mega Drive. 16-bit graphics and improved sound capabilities.
• Fifth Generation (1993-2001): PlayStation, Nintendo 64, Sega Saturn. Introduction of 3D graphics and CD-ROM technology.
• Sixth Generation (1998-2009): PlayStation 2, Xbox, Nintendo GameCube. DVD playback, online gaming capabilities.
• Seventh Generation (2005-2013): PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii. High-definition graphics, motion control, digital distribution.
• Eighth Generation (2013-2020): PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Wii U/Switch. Improved online services, streaming capabilities.
• Ninth Generation (2020-Present): PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S. Solid-state drives (SSDs), ray tracing, 8K resolution.

Notable Console Manufacturers:

• Nintendo: Known for family-friendly games and innovative hardware (e.g., Wii, Switch).
• Sony: PlayStation series, known for exclusive titles and high-end graphics.
• Microsoft: Xbox series, known for online services (Xbox Live) and powerful hardware.
• Sega: Historically significant, known for the Genesis/Mega Drive and arcade-style games (no longer manufactures consoles).

Game consoles can refer to video game consoles and machines, or parts and accessories thereof. Depending on the specific type and function, different HS codes may apply.

Here are the relevant HS codes based on the provided information:

• 9504.50.00.00: This HS code covers video game consoles and machines, other than those of subheading 9504.30, and parts and accessories thereof.

  • 95: Chapter 95 – Toys, games, and sports equipment.
  • 04: Heading 04 – Toys, games, and sports equipment; parts and accessories thereof.
  • 50: Subheading 50 – Video game consoles and machines, other than those of subheading 9504.30, and parts and accessories thereof.
  • 00: Further specification within the subheading.
  • Tax Details: Base tariff: 0.0%, Additional tariff: 0.0%, Tariff after 2025.4.2: 30%. Total tariff: 30.0%.

• 9504.30.00.10: This HS code covers video game consoles and machines, table or parlor games (including pinball machines, billiards, special tables for casino games, and automatic bowling equipment), amusement machines operated by coins, banknotes, bank cards, tokens, or any other means of payment: Other games operated by coins, banknotes, bank cards, tokens, or any other means of payment, other than automatic bowling alley equipment; parts and accessories thereof.

  • 95: Chapter 95 – Toys, games, and sports equipment.
  • 04: Heading 04 – Toys, games, and sports equipment; parts and accessories thereof.
  • 30: Subheading 30 – Video game consoles and machines, table or parlor games, including pinball machines, billiards, special tables for casino games and automatic bowling equipment, amusement machines operated by coins, banknotes, bank cards, tokens or by any other means of payment: Other games, operated by coins, banknotes, bank cards, tokens or by any other means of payment, other than automatic bowling alley equipment; parts and accessories thereof.
  • 10: Further specification within the subheading.
  • Tax Details: Base tariff: 0.0%, Additional tariff: 7.5%, Tariff after 2025.4.2: 30%. Total tariff: 37.5%.

• 8543.70.88.00: This HS code covers electrical machines and apparatus having individual functions, not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter; parts thereof: Other machines and apparatus: Other: Electrical machines with translation or dictionary functions; video game console controllers which use infrared transmissions to operate or access the various functions and capabilities of the console.

  • 85: Chapter 85 – Electrical machinery and equipment.
  • 43: Heading 43 – Electrical machinery and equipment.
  • 70: Subheading 70 – Other machines and apparatus.
  • 88: Further specification within the subheading.
  • Tax Details: Base tariff: 0.0%, Additional tariff: 0.0%, Tariff after 2025.4.2: 30%. Total tariff: 30.0%.