It’s all lawsuits and complaints galore this year with Apple against Nokia, Nokia against Apple and now Motorola against Research In Motion. Apparently, according to Motorola, RIM is violating five Motorola patents which involve Wi-Fi access, application management, power management and UI. So, Motorola decided to file a complaint with the International Trade Commission, or ITC, in hopes to block the import of any and all devices that violate its patents. We’re guessing that means virtually all new devices. And if RIM decides to side-step the issue and continue delays, Motorola’s IP attorney says:
In light of RIM’s continued unlicensed use of Motorola’s patents, RIM’s use of delay tactics in our current patent litigation, and RIM’s refusal to design out Motorola’s proprietary technology, Motorola had no choice but to file a complaint with the ITC to halt RIM’s continued infringement. Motorola will continue to take all necessary steps to protect its R&D and intellectual property.
We’re guessing, or hoping, that some licensing deals can be worked out between the two companies so things can go on business as usual. But at this point, it’s kinda looking like “If you can’t beat them, block them” on Motorola’s end. What do you guys think? Tort reform!