Apple Faces $5.7 Billion Damages in Patent Dispute
A jury in a San Diego federal court has decided in favour of Taction, awarding the company over $5.7 billion after finding that Apple’s Taptic Engine infringed on two of Taction’s patents. These patents, U.S. Patent Nos. 10,659,885 and 10,820,117, relate to tactile transducer technology that enables users to feel feedback from a device.
Background of the Lawsuit
Taction, a company focusing on haptic technology, initiated legal action against Apple in 2021. The lawsuit alleged that Apple’s use of the Taptic Engine in products like Apple Watches and iPhones utilised Taction’s patented technology without the required licensing. The jury’s decision determined that Apple infringed on two claims from one patent and one claim from another, though it did not find the infringement to be wilful.
The case partly revolved around accusations from Taction that Apple had reverse-engineered technology originally used in Kannon gaming headsets. Apple, maintaining its stance, plans to appeal the jury’s ruling.
Further comments from Apple are awaited, as they have indicated intent to contest the verdict. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theverge.com.