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Google Backs HTC with Patents Against Apple

By Seow Tein Hee - on 8 Sep 2011, 8:48am

Google Backs HTC with Patents Against Apple

HTC has filed new infringement claims against Apple, using nine patents that were sold to the Taiwanese company from Google on August 29th.

During the ongoing patent lawsuits between HTC and Apple, Google has already mentioned that it will support HTC to defend its Android platform. The search company came through with its promise via the transfer of these nine patents to aid HTC in its legal battle.

According to Bloomberg, the new patents are targeted at how Apple's Mac computer, iPhone, iPod, iPad, iCloud and iTunes are infringing patents for a way to upgrade software wirelessly; a way to transfer data between a microprocessor and a support chip; a method to store user preferences, and a way to provide consistent contact between application software and a radio modem.

Besides these nine patents, HTC has been buffing up its patent portfolio with the acquisition of S3 Graphics from VIA Technologies for US$300 million. With the International Trade Commission (ITC) making a preliminary ruling that Apple has infringed two of S3 Graphics' patents, it's evident that HTC's acquisition is aimed at building a stronger shield against further patent attacks from Apple.

As the patent battle rages on, it raises one very important question: in the end, who wins? With companies attempting to block sales of its rivals' products, we are sure that there's only one loser in this game: consumers.

Our only hope, is to see companies reaching a settlement without dragging the patent lawsuits further than it should.

Source: Bloomberg

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