Florida companies must take care to avoid infringing on the patents of other businesses. If they do, they may face litigation and be forced to pay damages. Apple’s legal troubles demonstrate the importance of avoiding infringement. Recently, Apple was sued by Masimo for violating its patents.
According to reports, Masimo filed a lawsuit against Apple for infringing on the company’s patents through features that Apple offers on its Apple Watches. Masimo alleges that the Apple Watch contains technology that infringes on 10 of Masimo’s patents. One of these patents involves the Apple Watch feature that monitors the wearers’ blood oxygen content and heart rate. Masimo also has alleged that Apple hired away several former key employees.
Apple is currently facing multiple infringement lawsuits and antitrust investigations over its alleged infringement of patents, violation of user privacy, and other issues. In 2019, a class-action lawsuit was filed against Apple because Siri reportedly recorded users without their knowledge or consent. Apple settled with Qualcomm in April 2019 after Qualcomm accused it of infringing on its patents. Through that settlement, Apple signed a six-year licensing agreement and agreed to pay the company an undisclosed amount.
Businesses that invent new processes or products might want to talk to intellectual property attorneys about the patent process. Patents can help to protect the intellectual property of businesses against infringement. Companies that have patents that are being infringed by others might also want to consult with attorneys who might file lawsuits on behalf of their clients to secure injunctions against further use and damages. They might also be able to negotiate settlements to license the use of the patents in exchange for payments. Some cases might settle outside of court while others might need to go through the litigation process.