1 Jan 2008
A US federal judge has ordered Qualcomm to stop selling data chips which infringe on patents held by rival, Broadcom. The injunction, issued by U.S. District Court Judge James V. Selna prohibits Qualcomm from making, using and selling certain chipsets and software that infringe the three Broadcom patents. The injunction also prohibits Qualcomm from engaging in a broad range of additional activities.
"We are very pleased with today's ruling, which addresses Qualcomm's improper use of our patented technology covering cellular chips and software for advanced consumer devices," said David A. Dull, Broadcom's Senior Vice President and General Counsel. "Broadcom should not have to compete against companies that use Broadcom's own patented technology against us, and this injunction puts a stop to Qualcomm doing just that."
The three patents apply to WCDMA chips. Other disputed chipsets relating to EVDO services can continue to be sold until 2009, although royalty payments will have to be paid, and sales can only be made to existing customers.
A Qualcomm spokeswoman said the company was reviewing the ruling and declined further comment.
The injunction is the result of legal action which commenced back in 2005.
Posted to the site on 1st January 2008
