US District Court Judge Barbara Crabb dismissed the case after a week of pre-trial legal wrangling that evidently convinced her that the matter was headed for prolonged litigation instead of earnest resolution.
Apple filed suit against Motorola Mobility early last year after Motorola claimed it was due 2.25% royalty on sales of devices powered by iOS software, using patented Wi-Fi and video technology.
Apple argued that the price was too high because the technology was in a category considered industry-essential and therefore had to be licensed under terms that are "fair, reasonable, and nondiscriminatory" (FRAND).
Crabb sided with Apple regarding the FRAND status of the Motorola technology but dismissed the case on Monday, when the trial was to begin, after Apple placed conditions on whether it would accept license terms set by the judge.
"The case cannot proceed to trial on the remaining issue; case dismissed," Crabb wrote in her ruling.
Apple can appeal the judge's decision.
Motorola Mobility said in a statement, "We're pleased that the court has dismissed Apple's lawsuit with prejudice. Motorola has long offered licensing to our extensive standards-essential patent portfolio at a reasonable and non-discriminatory rate in line with industry standards. We remain interested in reaching an agreement with Apple."
Apple did not respond to an AFP request for comment.
Source: AFP
For more than two decades, I-Net Bridge has been one of South Africa’s preferred electronic providers of innovative solutions, data of the highest calibre, reliable platforms and excellent supporting systems. Our products include workstations, web applications and data feeds packaged with in-depth news and powerful analytical tools empowering clients to make meaningful decisions.
We pride ourselves on our wide variety of in-house skills, encompassing multiple platforms and applications. These skills enable us to not only function as a first class facility, but also design, implement and support all our client needs at a level that confirms I-Net Bridge a leader in its field.
Go to: http://www.inet.co.za
