Optis Wins $300M FRAND Patent Verdict Against Apple
Table of Contents
Summary of the Dispute
A group of technology companies Optis Wireless Technology, LLC, Optis Cellular Technology, LLC, PanOptis Patent Management, LLC, Unwired Planet, LLC, and Unwired Planet International Limited filed a lawsuit against Apple Inc. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. These companies, collectively known as "Optis," accused Apple of infringing multiple patents related to LTE (Long Term Evolution) wireless communication standards, asserting that Apple’s iPhones and other devices utilized technology protected by those patents without securing a proper license.
The Legal Grounds
Optis sued Apple under 35 U.S.C. § 271, claiming that Apple made, used, sold, and imported devices into the United States that infringed several essential patents. These patents are fundamental to the operation of the LTE standard, and Optis stated that Apple incorporated the protected technology into its products without permission or payment of fair royalties. The cause of action revolved around patent infringement and the obligations companies have to license essential technology on fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory (FRAND) terms.
Harm to the Plaintiffs
Optis insisted that Apple’s actions led to significant monetary damages. By selling unlicensed devices that practiced Optis’ LTE patents, Apple allegedly deprived Optis of royalties and undermined its licensing business. The Plaintiffs claimed ongoing injuries, including lost licensing revenue, unfair competition, and a continued violation of intellectual property rights.
What the Plaintiffs Asked For
In its complaint, Optis demanded substantial monetary compensation, specifically recovery of both actual and
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