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With 5G on the horizon, patent fights between owners and innovators escalate

On Behalf of | Nov 23, 2020 | Intellectual Property |

5G technology is set to change the way people communicate—in Atlanta and around the globe. It will allow for an instantaneous exchange of information between devices.

Additionally, it will allow for more efficient information retrieval from so called “dumb” devices such as infrastructural and agricultural equipment.

5G is also expected to generate an unbelievable amount of wealth, trillions of dollars’ worth, according to some estimates.

A problem as old as time

As with any other new, innovative technology throughout history, who has rights to the technology is already becoming a subject of controversy.

Many large companies, such as Ericsson, Huawei, and Nokia, are already staking out claims. Nokia, for example, recently filed for over 3,000 5G-related patents and other tech giants are quickly following suit.

However, many smaller companies are claiming that such patent hoarding will inevitably stifle innovation. Many have visions of using the new technology in unique ways in their industry but are now hesitant to do so out of fear of reprisal from large patent owners.

“There is always concern that there is too much market power if companies sit on really large patent portfolios,” said Carsten Fink, the chief economist of the World Intellectual Property Organization told the Financial Times.

Of course, from the tech giants’ perspective, it is their investment and development efforts that made 5G widely available in the first place. It is only fair that they get to patent the technology that they had a direct hand in creating.

These matters are only likely to be resolved through litigation. Although governments will have to do their part on the policy front.

Intellectual property law is complex and undecipherable. An experienced IP lawyer can ensure your vision is protected.