Google Becomes the Latest Victim of Patent Trolling
SimpleAir, a non-practicing entity that has gone after other tech giants, is seeking $125 million or more in damages for patent infringement.
By Laura Entis •
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Despite a recent round of legislation aimed at curbing their litigious ire, patent trolls aren't scared to go after the big guys. At least, SimpleAir isn't. The patent troll has already filed suits against tech giants like Apple, Microsoft, Motorola and Samsung.
In case you aren't familiar with patent trolls, they're companies that buy patents solely for the purpose of collecting licensing fees from accused infringers.
Related: More Bad News for Patent Trolls
In a verdict handed down on Saturday, SimpleAir convinced a jury that Android's push notification services infringed on its network messaging and data transmission patent. Interestingly, this is the same patent over which SimpleAir went after Apple a year ago. But while Apple chose to settle, Google chose to fight.
It may be regretting that decision.
The trial took place in the Eastern District of Texas, which, according to the Verge, is a jurisdiction known for its warm hospitality to trolls. SimpleAir is seeking upwards of $125 million in patent infringements (how much the company will actually collect will be decided in a second trial, with a new jury).
The House of Representatives passed an anti-patent troll bill late last year, which is still awaiting approval by the Senate.
Related: In Patent War, Apple and Samsung to Try Mediation Before March to Court Date
