UK: ZTE gains ground in war against patent troll

China-based non-practicing entity Vringo has reportedly withdrawn an infringement claim against wireless technology conglomerate ZTE in UK federal court.

Reports say Vringo, sometimes referred to as a patent troll for acquiring patents without making products but profiting off patent infringement suits, has withdrawn the claim over a standard essential patent. The development marks the second withdrawal of a claim out of three infringement accusations against ZTE.

The infringement claims were filed in the UK High Court of Justice Chancery Division court.

According to reports, the withdrawals suggest Vringo is realizing that its strategy is failing. The court also ordered the company to compensate ZTE for legal fees, among other setbacks.

Vringo has launched patent litigation against ZTE in several jurisdictions across the globe. According to reports, ZTE is concerned over the trend of patent troll litigation concerning SEPs.

Competition authorities in the EU and US are eyeing the practice as a breach of antitrust law. With this in mind, ZTE has filed a formal complaint with the European Commission accusing Vringo of illegal behavior.

Full content: Herald Online

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