Philips Sues Six Companies Over 3G, 4G Wireless Patents

Koninklijke Philips NV sued Thales SA, Telit Communications PLC, Quectel Wireless Solutions Co., and others in Delaware federal court Thursday for allegedly misusing its wireless technology in their cellular communication modules.

Philips accused the companies of refusing to accept fair terms to license its 3G and 4G wireless standard-essential patents, which it says cover technology fundamental to cellular communication modules and related internet-of-things devices. The companies instead collect “vast sums of money in revenues through infringement in a manner consistent with an ‘efficient infringement’ tactical approach,” according to the complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the District ...