Apple now suing HTC

Simon · Mar 02, 2010, 21:04:00

Apple has taken legal action against phone maker HTC, alleging it has infringed patented technology.

HTC has been accused of infringing 20 patents owned by Apple that are used in the iPhone. Apple said the patent infringements covered technology used in the iPhone interface as well as its "underlying hardware and architecture." HTC makes phones for many firms including Google and was behind the Nexus One handset.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/8545976.stm

Isn't this getting a bit silly? $:-\$

Glenn · Mar 02, 2010, 21:14:23

Quote"We think competition is healthy, but competitors should create their own original technology, not steal ours."

They seem to have forgotten that Nokia are suing Apple over 10 patent infringements.

Simon · Mar 02, 2010, 21:16:15

That's why I think it's getting silly. They are all just going round in circles, and filling the lawyers pockets.

Glenn · Mar 02, 2010, 21:26:27

From what I read, one of the points that HTC are accused of breaching is the zoom function in the Sense UI. Surely Apple will need to prove that the code in the software is theirs? Do all mobile phone companies pay AT&T along with Bell Labs a licence fee, for using their method of phone use? Some how I doubt it.

Simon · Mar 02, 2010, 21:32:48

Oh, the 'pinch' thing? I thought that was a fairly standard feature on phones now. Did the first company to put a camera in a phone sue everyone else who followed?

Rik · Mar 03, 2010, 09:53:20

Not that I recall.

Glenn · Mar 03, 2010, 12:35:21

Here are some of the contested points http://www.theregister.co.uk/2010/03/03/apple_htc_google/

Rik · Mar 03, 2010, 12:38:44

If only Xerox had retained control of WIMP interfaces, we wouldn't have so many suits.

Steve · Mar 03, 2010, 19:29:36

I see Google's got in on the act and standing behind HTC

Glenn · Mar 03, 2010, 19:36:16

HTC do make the Nexus for Goggle.

Steve · Mar 03, 2010, 20:54:52

Its puts a fair bit of cash behind HTC defence