Apple’s not the only one getting sue-happy over patents, as this brilliant infographic from The New York Times shows that pretty much every major player is involved in a patent lawsuit.
Google says the smartphone will overtake the desktop within the next three years, so many companies are trying to carve out their space. Patents are an important part of this and it makes sense for companies to protect their legitimate cases, but I think the patent system is a bit flawed – Apple has a freaking patent on unlocking a touchscreen by gesturing on an image.
Many times, patent lawsuits are just a strategic move that eventually leads to a licensing deal or a settlement. Don’t get me wrong – A company has every right to defend its patents in court but too many of these could potentially stifle innovation and hurt consumers.
[Via Bits]