Twenty-seven technology and automotive companies complain in a letter to the European Commission about the misuse of patents by other entities in the field of technology. These are companies like Apple, Cisco, Daimler or BMW, which urge European officials to shine a light on companies that, according to the signatories, are abusing the patent system. At the same time, it is an indirect message to companies that refuse to grant licenses to basic patents on fair terms.
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The letter does not name any specific companies, but it was written after Nokia refused to license parts for its self-driving cars. The companies say the lack of patent licenses stifles innovation and discourages “new players” from entering the market. “ Some companies have a practice of granting patent licenses only to certain companies. This prevents new technology companies from planning to invest in research, development and market entry, ” the letter, signed by some of the world’s largest technology companies, says. .
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In the letter, the companies further call on the European Commission to take decisive action to ensure that European law protects innovation in all industrial sectors. There is no doubt that a similar letter from several technology companies is completely unique. The signatories also add that they have invested a total of 45 billion euros in technological research. There is a cross with patent disputes. You may remember the legal battle between Qualcomm and Applem, which very unexpectedly ended in reconciliation and the withdrawal of all mutual lawsuits.
