Apple is filing suit against the Taiwan based phone maker HTC for iPhone related patent violations. HTC, the maker of the Nexus One that is powered by Google’s Android operating system, is also responsible for creating several other Android phones – such as the the Droid Eris, MyTouch, and more.
Apple has claimed that many of the HTC phones (including the MyTouch, Nexus One, G-1) were patent technologies used by the iPhone that HTC did not have a license to use. In total, Apple is claiming that roughly 20 patents have been violated by HTC, which range from UI to device hardware as well as multi-touch / pinch and zoom.
This is only the beginning. Apple has stated that they are not going to sit by and watch other manufacturers steal their patent technology. Unlike the other patent suits, like Apple vs. Nokia, HTC lacks the patent portfolio to create or wage a long battle with Apple to counter this attack.
If Apple wins, this could have several negative impacts for HTC. It will crush their bargaining power when selling devices to carriers, as their will be increased liability with carrying HTC devices. Apple is also filing the suit with the ITC, which has the power to control the import of goods.
Google has stated that they are not involved as a party in this suit, but as someone with an HTC device I certainly hope they are on the sidelines coaching HTC through their headset.
