HTC could face an import ban by Apple

There’s some big news in the mobile technology world this week as HTC could face an import ban by Apple before the end of this year. Apple has won a preliminary ruling from a US trade panel judge against HTC for their infringement on two of Apple’s patents. This may mean that Apple can target other Android handset makers and could give Apple the right to demand an import ban into the USA against HTC. What would people do without HTC phones? If there is a HTC ban this could mean a major loss in sales across the US. This is a risk for Android handset makers as it’s likely that all Android devices have infringed the patents.

So you’re probably wondering what this all means? Well one of the patents covers “system and method for performing an action on a structure in computer-generated data”.  This means that email addresses or phone numbers can be recognised so when they are activated by a finger on a smartphone, they activate the relevant programme. This is what happens when you’re scrolling through your smartphone and make a call or send an email. As this was Apple’s idea, they pointed out that Android contains details that exactly align with the outline of its patent. The full commission must rule on 6 December 2011 whether it will uphold or reverse the ruling.

This isn’t the first time Apple have reported infringements as Apple also had issues with Samsung and Nokia. The increase in smartphone technology has meant that patent litigation has increased and competition for customers has been fierce. The battle between Apple and other smartphone manufacturers like HTC is in full swing with new and exciting handsets regularly being released. Apple is rumoured to be getting ready for the launch of the iPhone 5 this year, which will set Apple in a good position in the battle of the smartphone market. And we’re waiting patiently to hear of the release date of this, as I’m sure you are too.

It’ll be a shame if HTC are stopped in the US. Let’s hope there isn’t a HTC ban on their handsets in the UK. What would we do without them?

Just another lawsuit? – Update 1 August 2011

Following on from recent news on the possible HTC import ban into the US by Apple, there’s now some developments in this story as HTC have said that their company will be able to get through whatever happens. HTC have tried to calm any worries that their company will be banned from importing into the US by saying that they are willing to meet with Apple to sort out the problems within the Apple lawsuits.

However, the CEO of HTC Peter Chou still says that HTC is just a victim of its own success and it’s just part of business. It seems like HTC are dealing with the situation calmly. But HTC’s share value dropped when the lawsuit was announced which shows how much of an impact this issue is having on the company.

With the major increase in sales of smartphones there has been a lot of competition amongst smartphone manufacturers, which is why patent litigation has also increased. With rumours of the release date and possible features of the Apple iPhone 5 flying around everywhere, we’re waiting patiently for this and this will definitely put Apple in a good position in the highly competitive smartphone market.