Android Patent Roundup: Motorola Cleared, Nokia Patent Sale, Microsoft and LG Deal

Motorola not infringing Apple’s patents

The ITC had reviewed whether Motorola infringed Apple’s patents, a first step toward an import ban. Its findings said none of the three claims was infringed, including a very broad “multipoint touchscreen” claim. Apple was expected to appeal. The author saw it as a win for Android, and noted that Motorola was about to become part of Google.

Nokia sells patents

Nokia sold patents to Sisvel. The author wondered whether Nokia needed cash or whether the buyer wanted those particular patents, and noted that Nokia was under financial pressure. What Sisvel planned to do with them was unknown.

Microsoft and LG

Microsoft agreed a patent licensing deal with LG. The author contrasted Microsoft’s approach of signing licences with Apple’s more aggressive lawsuits. It was reportedly around the eleventh such deal and, according to the post, covered a large share of Android devices.

Kodak versus HTC and Apple

Kodak added HTC to its patent action against Apple. The author felt it was sad to see the former photography giant lash out, and wondered why HTC was added only now.

Why it matters

Patent fights could hurt Android phone makers. The author said the weekly column would focus more on outcomes than on every step of each case.