Apple ordered to pay $5.7bn after losing vibration tech patent suit
Apple has been ordered to pay $5.7 billion in damages after a jury found it infringed on two patents held by audio firm Taction Technology regarding haptic vibration systems. Apple has denied the claims, stating its 'Taptic Engine' is fundamentally different, and plans to appeal the verdict.
Why it matters
This massive legal judgment underscores the high stakes of intellectual property litigation in the consumer electronics industry.
Image source, Getty Images By Liv McMahon Technology reporter Published 29 minutes ago Apple has been ordered to pay $5.7bn (£4.3bn) in damages after a US jury found it had used another firm's tech without permission.
Audio firm Taction Technology claimed in 2021 that Apple had infringed two of its patents for haptics systems, which enable vibrations for actions such as receiving a message or pressing a button.
This tech is built into devices like the iPhone and Apple Watch.
Apple has been approached for comment. In a statement given to news outlets including CNBC , external , the company said it had not used Taction's vibration tech and would appeal the verdict.
"While we thank the jury for their consideration, we strongly disagree with today's verdict and the damages awarded, which are entirely unsupported by the facts," Apple said.
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