Originally Posted by Ripinpeace

Delta and American can easily release their own “sky couch”. United doesn’t own the concept, just the design via domestic license with their specific seat vendor. DL or AA could license through Air New Zealand for their “sky couch” design, can make micro engineering or cosmetic changes via alternative mechanisms, or wait for the United license to expire with their vendor; or choose a different seat vendor with their own license.

As with anything in the airline world (like WiFi, IFE, premium push, loyalty, etc), one airline will do something and the rest follow. Except, AA and DL can wait and see if the idea is a bust or not.