Apple Seeks To Intervene….
As expected, it has been reported that Apple has sought to intervene in the Lodsys patent infringement lawsuit brought against the Apple software developers in Texas.
Category: Software
Update: Software Developers Sued In Texas
As previously discussed, Apple developers allegedly received cease and desist letters from Lodsys based on the use of in-app applications. Now, Lodsys appears to have taken it to the next level by allegedly suing several developers for patent infringement in the ever popular Eastern District of Texas. Read what appears to be a copy of the Complaint. It will be interesting to see Apple’s reaction and/or next steps.
Android App Developers Also On Hit List
It has been reported that Lodsys has also pursued Android app developers over in app purchase technology. Such technology allows for a wide range of content (e.g., virtual content, such as additional levels, etc.) to be sold within the application.
Apple Steps Up
In furtherance of my earlier post, Apple has reportedly stepped up to defend its developers. Read a recent update on the state of events as well as the letter allegedly sent by Apple to Lodsys.
Software Developers Beware
It has been interesting to follow Lodsys’ (a patent holding company) pursuit of Apple app developers for patent infringement. It has been reported that Apple took a license to the patent-at-issue from Lodsys and now, Lodsys is sending cease and desist letters to various Apple app developers. According to various sources, Apple allegedly required use of the allegedly infringing technology by the developers so certain groups are calling on Apple to indemnify the developers. Read the Electronic Frontier Foundation’s take on the issue.
What is the take away from this scenario? If you are developer and are required to incorporate some sort of technology into your software app, it would be smart to try to negotiate some sort of indemnity provisions to avoid the situation described above. While this may be difficult as the developers are not often in a position of power to negotiate such terms, they need to be aware of what may transpire without such protections in place.