Nokia Wins UK Appeal Blocking Acer, Asus Video Streaming Lawsuits
NOK•Nokia won a UK Court of Appeal decision preventing Acer and Asus from advancing patent infringement suits over its H.264 video streaming technologies. The ruling reverses a High Court order and shields Nokia’s licensing revenues.
1. Appeal Background
Nokia challenged a High Court ruling that allowed Acer and Asus to proceed with infringement claims over its H.264 video streaming patents. The Court of Appeal found the lower court had erred in its validity assessment and halted the lawsuits.
2. Details of the Court Decision
The appellate panel agreed that key claims in Nokia’s compression technology patents were valid and enforceable, blocking Acer and Asus from maintaining their suits in the UK. This reversal underscores stricter standards applied to patent validity evaluations.
3. Implications for Licensing
By securing this legal victory, Nokia strengthens its patent portfolio and maintains leverage in licensing negotiations with hardware manufacturers. Acer and Asus may consider further appeals or shift litigation to other jurisdictions.
