Apple's $862 MILLION phone bill: iPhone giant loses landmark legal case

Apple facing a bill of $862 million in damages

A US jury has found the Cupertino company used technology owned by the University of Wisconsin-Madison without permission.

 

The patent in question improves processor performance as well as efficiency, and can be found in many of Apple's most popular devices, specifically its iPhone and iPad chips. 

Legal proceedings began as far back as January when the University alleged that Apple's A7, A8 and A8X processors (found in the iPhone 5s, 6, 6 Plus)  infringed on the patent.

The patent in question (No. 5,781,752) dates back to 1998 and has previously landed chip-manufacturer Intel in hot water too. In 2008 the University settled out of court for an undisclosed sum.

Chips found in several versions of the iPad (the iPad Air and iPad mini with Retina display) have also been found in violation.

 

Apple's A7 chip is one of a number involved in the court case

The court heard that Apple has continually ignored requests to license the patent. But Apple has denied the infringement, arguing that the patent is invalid.

According to U.S. District Judge William Conley, Apple could now be liable to pay up to $862.4 million in damages. That figure could rise even more if Apple is found to have infringed on the patent willingly.

Last month Apple found itself in the sights of the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation with its newest A9 and A9X chips.

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