Apple loses UK patent appeal over critical technologies used in iPhones

Apple Inc. lost a London appeal over essential technology patents used in iPhones.

Apple Inc. lost a London appeal over essential technology patents used in iPhones.

The Court of Appeals upheld a previous decision that Optis Cellular Technology LLC can prohibit Apple from using its critical patents for 3G and 4G telecommunications unless Apple commits to fair and reasonable terms of use.

The dispute is part of a long-running legal standoff between Apple and Optis that has culminated in six separate lawsuits and multiple appeals in the UK. The case could set a precedent as it involves the licensing of essential standard patents — technology that is critical to running specific products or services.

Optis first sued Apple in the UK in February 2019, because Apple had infringed eight of its patents. Apple objected that Optis abused its dominant position.

They may be required to take a court-set fee once a patent is declared valid and infringed, or risk having their products blocked from the UK

Emails to Optis and Apple requesting comment were not immediately answered.

The lawsuits between the companies reflected the “dysfunctional state of the current system” for settling disputes over essential standard patents and fair terms, the judges said in the ruling. “Each side has taken its stand in an attempt to play the system in its favor.”