Nokia sues Apple over iPhone

Claims Jobsian outfit infringes 10 patents

By Kelly Fiveash • Get more from this author

Posted in Mobile, 22nd October 2009 15:21 GMT

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Nokia is suing Apple for allegedly infringing ten of the company's patents in its iPhone device.

The world's number one mobile phone vendor filed its lawsuit in Delaware's federal district court today.

Nokia detailed ten patents in the case that relate to technologies "fundamental to making devices which are compatible with one or more of the GSM, UMTS and wireless LAN standards," it said in a statement.

It claimed all Apple's iPhone models shipped since the Cupertino-based firm debuted its popular device in 2007 infringed the patents.

"The basic principle in the mobile industry is that those companies who contribute in technology development to establish standards create intellectual property, which others then need to compensate [them] for," said Nokia's IP veep Ilkka Rahnasto.

"Apple is also expected to follow this principle. By refusing to agree appropriate terms for Nokia's intellectual property, Apple is attempting to get a free ride on the back of Nokia's innovation."

That "refusing to agree appropriate terms" implies Nokia approached Apple to demand its due but was told to take a hike.

Apple could not immediately be reached for comment at time of writing. ®

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