Android Patent Wars Weekly Recap: Oct 31 to Nov 4
Archive note. This story reflects what was known when it was first covered. Prices, availability and carrier offers are historical. For the current picture, start with the topic guides.
Microsoft defends licensing
Microsoft said its licensing agreements were the best answer to the patent disputes. It had signed deals with several manufacturers, including Acer, HTC, Compal and Quanta. Its lawyer, Horacio Gutierrez, responded to Google’s claim that licensing amounts to extortion. Microsoft’s position was that licensing is a cleaner solution than the tangled situation that had developed, and that it only pursues companies that copy line by line, not those with similar ideas.
Apple loses to NT-K
Apple lost a patent case against NT-K, a Spanish tablet maker. NT-K then counter-sued for moral damages and brought an antitrust claim, because Apple had filed criminal charges against the company. The writer saw it as a possible weakening of Apple’s claims elsewhere, though probably not retroactive for decisions already made in places like Australia and Germany.
Samsung and Apple’s design chief
Samsung planned to put Apple’s design chief on the stand to speak about the infringement claims. The writer was unsure whether this was a clever move or a blunder.
Frequently asked questions
Which manufacturers had licensing deals with Microsoft?
The post named Acer, HTC, Compal and Quanta.
What was the NT-K case?
Apple lost a patent case against the Spanish tablet maker, which then counter-sued over the criminal charges Apple had filed.
Are these disputes still active?
This recap is historical. The outcomes after that week are not covered here.