Sony, LG settle patent dispute through cross-licensing deal
updated 11:00 pm EDT, Wed August 10, 2011
Resolution brings an end to ongoing battle
LG and Sony have announced that both companies have agreed to a settlement to resolve an ongoing legal battle. The electronics makers agreed to put an end to patent infringement lawsuits, instead adopting a cross-licensing deal that has satisfied both sides. The companies have filed to dismiss countering cases at the International Trade Commission.
"LG and Sony recently agreed to drop patent infringement lawsuits against each other," an LG spokeswoman told Reuters.
The lawsuits had focused on patents related to a wide range of technology, including Sony's PS3 console and Blu-ray equipment, and LG's cellphones. Both companies originally collaborated with a technology sharing agreement, however the lawsuits were filed after the partnership expired and both sides reportedly failed to agree on terms of a renewal.
LG's lawsuits culminated in an injunction against PS3 sales in Europe, however a Dutch court later overturned the initial ruling and ordered LG to pay $180,000 in legal fees. If the companies had not settled out of court, the proceedings may have been pushed into 2012 or later.
Sony and LG have yet to disclose specific terms of the settlement deal.
