Arthur HU, Senior Vice President and CIO | Lenovo
Arthur HU, Senior Vice President and CIO | Lenovo
The UK Court of Appeal has ruled in favor of Lenovo in its ongoing litigation with Ericsson concerning a cross-license related to standard essential patents (SEPs). The decision grants Lenovo an interim cross-license, marking a significant moment in SEP litigation by highlighting the necessity for adherence to Fair, Reasonable, and Non-discriminatory (FRAND) obligations.
The court unanimously found that Ericsson's attempts to seek injunctions against Lenovo worldwide breach its good faith FRAND obligation. It determined that these actions were intended to "coerce" Lenovo into accepting terms potentially exceeding what is considered FRAND.
This judgment underscores Lenovo's dedication as a willing licensee and its pursuit of transparency and fairness in global FRAND licensing amidst patent holders demanding excessive rates for their SEP portfolios.
Lenovo’s Chief Legal Officer, Laura Quatela, expressed gratitude for the court's thorough analysis: “Lenovo is grateful for the Court’s careful and objective analysis of the issues related to this case, and welcomes this landmark ruling and its broader implications for global SEP licensing and the technology industry. This judgment not only confirms that Lenovo is a willing licensee but strengthens and reaffirms our commitment to advocating for transparency and fairness in global FRAND licensing on behalf of our customers and the industry.”
Lenovo remains open to resolving matters with Ericsson and encourages engagement with the multiple FRAND offers it has extended.
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