Android Data: Google Strikes Back!

• Ryan Fullerton
• 15 years ago

Back in 1999, an Illinois man by the name of Erich Specht started a company, and named it “Android Data.” He filed for a patent from the US Patent and Trademark Office in 2000, and his request was granted in 2002.

If my blunt and lazy foreshadowing wasn’t enough, let me make it plain and clear: Google, we have a problem. Last April, Specht filed a lawsuit over trademark infringement against Samsung, Motorola, Sprint Nextel, and of course, Google. Additionally, he wanted $100 million in damages. The charges were dismissed, leaving Google as the only remaining defendant.

Obviously, Google can’t let this one go. So what do they do? Counter sue!  Google is suing for punitive damages, attorney fees, denial of payments requested, and an order for the US Patent and Trademark Office to cancel Specht’s “Android Data” registration.

Both lawsuits are still in progress. Google is expected to settle if they lose, or possibly even before. We’ll be sure to keep you updated on this situation!

[Via BusinessInsider]