Posted on 02/10/2006 10:59:17 AM PST by x5452
AT&T: Apple infringing on MPEG-4 patents
AT&T says that Apple and others are infringing on its MPEG video compression patents. PC Magazine reports that "AT&T possesses several patents related to video compression, which the company says are an essential component of the MPEG-4 video technology. In a bid to drive its global licensing program, AT&T has targeted Apple Computer, Inc., CyberLink Corp., DivX, Inc., InterVideo, Inc., and Sonic Solutions as unlicensed companies whose products and software utilize the MPEG-4 technology." The report also says that AT&T has contacted national retailers that distribute products the potentially infringing products, to let them know that they may be held liable for infringement. AT&T says that it can provide proof of the infringements, which could result in potential damages including lost profits, royalties and – assuming willful action – treble damages and attorneys' fees, according to the report. "Last year, AT&T announced that Pentax and Nero are among the latest licensees of its MPEG-4 patent package, allowing the two licensed companies to move ahead unencumbered by patent restrictions."
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