Although they are involved in the most patent litigation around the world, Apple and Samsung can agree on one thing: patent trolls are not doing their part to increase innovation in the technology landscape. And for both companies, this is not just lip service for the majority of the tech community that is getting fed up with patent trolls. They were both involved in an impressive list of companies that were signatories on a letter to European policy-makers, warning against the dangers in creating a landscape in which patent trolls can thrive. In the letter, the companies expressed the importance of an effective and balanced unified patent system. This likely came partially in response to a growing number of patent troll cases in the United States in recent times.
Personally, I think this is a great step for technology innovation around the world. Although it is just a letter and not policy change quite yet, the fact that it is backed by some of the largest technology firms in the world will increase the validity and attention given to the request. Based on sources, there is about an even split in the European Commission when it comes to those that want to see patent reform and those that want to see an increase in patent litigation. If policy change does end up happening, it will be a great step in the right direction. And even further, if this shows positive results, the changes will be a great example for countries around the world that face similar issues.
(Information obtained from http://www.fosspatents.com/2014/02/growing-industry-coalition-urges-eu.html)
Personally, I think this is a great step for technology innovation around the world. Although it is just a letter and not policy change quite yet, the fact that it is backed by some of the largest technology firms in the world will increase the validity and attention given to the request. Based on sources, there is about an even split in the European Commission when it comes to those that want to see patent reform and those that want to see an increase in patent litigation. If policy change does end up happening, it will be a great step in the right direction. And even further, if this shows positive results, the changes will be a great example for countries around the world that face similar issues.
(Information obtained from http://www.fosspatents.com/2014/02/growing-industry-coalition-urges-eu.html)
It is interesting that you mentioned that there is an even split about patent reform and increase in patent litigation. I would have imagined that patent litigation are less desired, since the companies are using the money we spend on the products to fight against one another instead of creating more good.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I guess it also fuels the economy by channeling money across nations, which of course is good for the country where the case is held in. To the multinational companies, money spent on litigation anywhere is still money spent, but it does pay the salary where the case is at.
Hey Roshan, I talked about something quite similar to the above.I really like your commentary on the subject and definitely agree that these companies have a right to vent. Patent trolling is generally seen as a negative on the economy and by slowing the pace of innovation, we allow other countries to surpass the United States in technology. I think this open - letter is a good action item for these companies to take, however i am not entirely sure how the EU would respond. I think that one of two things could possibly happen. There is a slow change in policy to counteract patent trolls or there might be a rejection of the policy. I am hoping for the former. Interesting topic!
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