U.S. International Trade Commission To Investigate Nokia 3G Phones

September 6, 2007 – 6:53 am

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The U.S. International Trade Commission is set to look into possible anti-competitive practices by Nokia over the use of certain patents on 3G phones and handsets. The complaint was brought forward by InterDigital, the patent holder.

InterDigital, a wireless technology firm, alleged in August Nokia was engaged in unfair trade practice involving two InterDigital patents related to certain 3G handsets and components, including Nokia’s N75 phone.

Nokia, the world’s top mobile phone maker, said on Thursday it would vigorously defend itself, its products and its integrity.

The ITC said it would set a target date for completing the investigation within 45 days.

Nokia said InterDigital had declared the two patents in question as essential to the WCDMA (3G) standard, committing to license these on fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory terms.

“For the proper functioning of the standardization process and continued industry innovation, Nokia believes companies should refrain from seeking injunctions for standards essential patents,” Nokia said.

This is not the first time they two companies have thrown down over a patent dispute. In 2006, Nokia paid InterDigital $253 million in a licensing dispute involving 2G phones.

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