On July 5, 2023, Apple’s appeal in a patent dispute with Optis Cellular Technology LLC was dismissed by the Court of Appeal in London. The court specifically ruled that Apple had violated two of Optis’ 4G patents, which are considered standard essential patents (SEPs). These patents are crucial for implementing the 4G technical standard.
This recent judgment adds to the ongoing Apple-Optis legal battle. Last year, the High Court in London affirmed the validity and essential nature of Optis’ two 4G patents, concluding that Apple had indeed infringed upon them. Although Apple contested this ruling through an appeal, the Court of Appeal has now upheld the previous decision.
Consequently, this ruling potentially compels Apple to pay damages to Optis for the patent infringement. Furthermore, it may require Apple to obtain licenses for Optis’ patents under fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory (FRAND) terms.
Apple has not yet commented on the ruling.
Here are some of the key takeaways from the ruling:
- Apple has been found to have infringed two of Optis’ 4G patents.
- The Court of Appeal has upheld the High Court’s ruling that Optis’ two 4G patents are valid and essential.
- Apple could be forced to pay Optis damages for infringing its patents.
- Apple could also be required to license Optis’ patents on FRAND terms.
The ruling is a significant victory for Optis. It could have implications for other patent disputes involving SEPs. It is unclear how Apple will respond to the ruling. However, it is evident that the dispute is not yet resolved.
