Apple seems to have decided to end the legal war against Google and Android phone makers. This would bring an end to patent litigation that has cost the smartphone industry billions of dollars, without any clear results.
According to court filings, the Apple led Rockstar consortium has asked a federal judge to stay a series of lawsuits between Rockstar and Google.
The December 29 settlement comes after more than a year of patent lawsuits against at least seven Android-based device manufacturers.
No details of the settlement are forthcoming, but this is a radical departure from 2011, when Apple (as the majority share owner) banded together with Microsoft, Blackberry, Ericsson and Sony to pay $4.5 billion for old Nortel patents and to create Rockstar as a patent troll to attack Google.
In fact, Apple appears to be intent on disbanding Rockstar.
The end could be due to a fading memory of Steve Jobs, who famously stated that he would spend every last penny he had to bring down Google, and the shifting landscape against patent trolls.
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If you, or someone you know, need help with any Intellectual Property issue, from filing a patent, trademark or copyright, or just advice regarding how best to protect your ideas and your brand, please contact me for a free 30 minute consultation at or call (213) 785-8070 and ask for Norman.
– Ex astris, scientia –
I am and avid amateur astronomer and intellectual property attorney in Pasadena, California and I am a Rising Star as rated by Super Lawyers Magazine. As a former Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy, I am a proud member of the Armed Service Committee of the Los Angeles County Bar Association working to aid all active duty and veterans in our communities. Connect with me on Google +
Norman
