The tech giant’s 5G-equipped iPhones and iPads have been banned from sale and import in Colombia after a court determined that Apple products infringe patents owned by Ericsson.
In an escalation of the ongoing patent infringement war between Apple and Ericsson, Apple became the victim of a court ruling in Bogota, reports AppleInsider.
The two companies are fighting over a 5G patent owned by Ericsson, which is reportedly infringed by Apple.
Juzgado 042 Civil del Circuito de Bogotá, in the Colombian capital, announced in April that Apple’s 5G hardware infringes claim 2019/0003681 of Colombian Patent NC13/0003681.
The FOSS patent reports the patent, which is considered standard-essential for 5G and awarded to Ericsson in 2019, the court has said will remain valid until December 2037.
Following the April breach, Ericsson posted a bond valued at $50,000 the following month, so that it could be enforced, the report said.
The court on July 6 ordered a preliminary injunction affecting Apple Colombia SAS, a subsidiary of the Cupertino company in the country.
Under the injunction, Apple is prohibited from importing, selling, advertising or otherwise commercializing any product that infringes the patent, meaning any 5G-equipped iPhone or iPad.
Apple has to “alert and communicate” with retailers, social media platforms, mass media and other firms to ensure compliance.
The court also orders Colombia’s customs authority, the Directorate of National Taxes and Customs, to cease imports of the affected hardware.
read all breaking news, today’s fresh newswatch top videos And live TV Here.