It seems like there are lawsuits every single day surrounding patents, but they don’t always involve Google getting in trouble. A preliminary hearing found that Google infringed on not just one, but several patents by the brand Sonos.
The Hearing Details
Sonos sued Google stating that the tech company infringed on a total of five patents, all having to do with smart speakers. It has been a lengthy battle, dating back to 2020. But the preliminary hearing is a step in the right direction for Sonos.
The lawsuit states that Google stole technology after having access through a previous partnership with Sonos. Google is then accused of using that technology to produce its own products, such as smart speakers. Sonos is looking for a ban on those products including Nest Hubs, Chromecasts, and Pixel Phones. The United States International Trade Commission Judge found that Google did in fact infringe on Sonos’ patents so an official ruling is scheduled for December 13, 2021, to determine the course of action.
It Doesn’t End There
However, the legal battle doesn’t end with that lawsuit, as there are additional lawsuits in the works. Google ended up filing a countersuit. Sonos responded by filing another lawsuit claiming Google infringed on five more patents. The additional lawsuit by Sonos means Google is accused of infringing on a total of ten Sonos patents, leading to quite the legal mess.
Patents Are Complex
We all know patents are complex and confusing. If you are thinking of applying for a patent, always speak with a Scottsdale patent lawyer. An intellectual property lawyer will help you with completing the patent application, filing the application, and fighting any denials.
Once you are approved for a patent, it is your job to make sure that no one infringes on the patent. If they do, a lawsuit needs to be filed. This is where your patent lawyer will also help. From applying to the patent to protecting it, the right patent lawyer will be there through it all.