RIM has a lot of things on its plate right now. Priority numero uno: Don’t die. But when you’re getting dogged in the media left and right and then get handed a ~$150 million fine for infringing on a bunch of wireless patents, it makes things rough. But things are taking a slight tick upwards this week. First, RIM’s stock is up 4% on rumors that Samsung is considering to license BB 10 for possible future Samsung-made BlackBerry handsets. More important in the near-term, though, is the revelation that the above fine handed down to RIM last month has been overturned.
The $147.2 million fine that RIM was ordered to pay to Mformation Technologies over several wireless patents has been turned down, according to a press release sent out by the Canadian company themselves.
Per RIM Chief Legal Officer Steve Zipperstein:
“We appreciate the Judge’s careful consideration of this case. RIM did not infringe on Mformation’s patent and we are pleased with this victory.
The purpose of the patent system is to encourage innovation, but the system is still too often exploited in pursuit of other goals. Many policy makers have already recognized the need to address this problem and we call on others to join them as this case clearly highlights the significant need for continuing policy reform to help reduce the amount of resources wasted on unwarranted patent litigation.
Mformation Technologies can appeal the new ruling (and it’s likely that they’ll try). Still, even with potential follow-up lawsuits in the pipeline it’s hard to not feel a bit better about your morning knowing a nearly $150 million fine is now off the books.
Source: RIM | Via: TNW, Geeky-Gadgets
