Apple Sues to Shield Lightning Adapters From USB Patent Owner

Apple Inc.‘s Lightning technology doesn’t infringe patents related to USB connectors, the tech giant asserted in a new complaint filed in California federal court Feb. 5.

The Lightning connector connects Apple devices to external devices to transfer power and data. Fundamental Innovation Systems International LLC allegedly told Apple that Lightning technology infringes 12 of its patents related to USB chargers, connectors, and adapters, and that further use of the technology would require a license.

Apple sued in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California for a declaratory judgment of noninfringement. Neither its Lightning adapters nor its ...