Skip to main content

Apple defeats Wi-Lan in wireless technology patent infringement lawsuit

WiLAN-logo-RGB-1205 x 239 px

A court found today that Apple did not infringe wireless technology patents held by Wi-Lan. The Canadian firm accused several companies, including Apple, HTC, and HP of using proprietary wireless networking tech without a proper license. Apple was the only party who did not settle out of the suit, opting instead to fight back.

Apple claimed that Qualcomm, the manufacturer who supplied the wireless components in question, was responsible for the license but that Wi-Lan was seeking a claim against Apple, not Qualcomm, due to the chance at a bigger payday—in this case a royalty from every iPhone sold with the allegedly-infringing wireless hardware.

Wi-Lan has suffered heavy financial losses over the past few quarters, mostly due to litigation costs. Apple’s attorneys argued that this lawsuit was an attempt to recoup some of those losses by… getting involved in another lawsuit. Unfortunately for Wi-Lan this absolutely foolproof plan backfired and the company is now responsible for even more litigation fees.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Comments

  1. Jerrod IBanks Banks - 10 years ago

    Apple never backs down while others place their tails between their legs. I love it!