Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Taiwan's HTC mobile phones are seen on display near Apple Inc's iPhones in a popular computer market in Taipei [File photo] Wally Santana/AP/Press Association Images
Patent war

Apple turns up the heat on HTC in the patent war

The iPad and iPod maker claims that smartphone and tablet maker HTC has copied aspects if its design.

APPLE IS ACCUSING smartphone and tablet maker HTC of infringing yet more patents.

The iPad maker has filed a complaint with the US International Trade Commission asking for an inquiry into alleged infringements. The BBC reports that HTC has denied the allegations and has expressed dismay that “Apple has resorted to competition in the courts”.

Reuters reports that HTC shares fell sharply yesterday in the wake of the complaint, amid rumours that the Taiwanese company may have to pay Apple around $690 million in compensation.

This isn’t the first time Apple and HTC have been involved in a patent war. Last year Apple filed a separate patent action against the company, with HTC then issuing its own complaint. According to Reuters, preliminary rulings are expected this week.

The Wall Street Journal identifies five patents mentioned in this latest complaint from Apple, including the scrolling aspect of smartphones and the use of motion sensors to detect which way a user is holding a device.

The International Trade Commission can block the import of products if a patent infringement is found.

Apple is also embroiled in a patent battle with Samsung over the makeup of their respective products.

Read more: Samsung v Apple…the battle continues>

Your Voice
Readers Comments
9
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.