Google banned from selling Pixel 7 in Japan - Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 models are also at risk
A court in Tokyo has banned the sale of Google Pixel 7 smartphones in Japan due to infringement of a patent owned by South Korean company Pantech.
Here's What We Know
The technology in question is related to the operation of an LTE modem, in particular, the way it connects to mobile networks. The court found that Google had used the patented design without permission and did not comply with the terms of fair licensing.
Pantech filed a lawsuit, accusing Google of illegally using the patented technology. At the same time, Google refused to pay licence fees and provide data on Pixel 7 sales in Japan. This was the basis for the injunction.
The Japanese market is strategically important for Google - the company ranks second in smartphone sales there after Apple, ahead of Samsung and Xiaomi. The ban could seriously hurt Google's position in the region.
This is not the end of the matter - Pantech has filed another lawsuit concerning the newer Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 models. If the companies fail to reach an agreement, the ban could affect these smartphones as well.
Google may lose one of its key markets if it does not resolve the patent dispute in the near future.
According to the data obtained by Android Headlines, the Made by Google event will take place on 13 August, where the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL and the foldable Pixel 10 Pro Fold will be presented.
Source: etnews
