December 12, 2022
Ericsson and Apple have entered into a multi-year global patent licensing agreement. The agreement includes a cross-license for patented cellular standard-essential technologies as well as other patent rights.
The two companies first sued each other in 2015, accusing each other of patent infringement and licensing disputes involving 2G, 3G, and 4G technologies.
While the initial lawsuits were settled, the conflict resurfaced in October 2021, this time over patent licensing for 5G technology. The two companies filed patent infringement lawsuits against each other, with Ericsson going so far as to seek a ban on iPhone imports. In negotiations to license patented communication technology, Apple accused Ericsson of using strong-arm tactics.
Furthermore, Ericsson and Apple have agreed to expand their technological and business collaboration, including in technology, interoperability, and standard development. Including the effects of the settlement and ongoing IPR business with all other licensees, Ericsson forecasts fourth-quarter 2022 IPR licensing revenues of SEK 5.5-6.0 billion.
The sources for this piece include an article in Reuters.
