HTC One hit with preliminary injunction in Netherlands over Nokia microphone technology
It may not be another patent dispute, but that doesn’t mean HTC hasn’t landed themselves in hot water once again. The manufacturer of one of the best Android devices to date may have unknowingly placed a giant target on their backs with the release of the One. Nokia was granted a preliminary injunction against the HTC One in the Netherlands over its use of a “high-amplitude microphone,” a Nokia owned component.
According to Nokia, this technology was to be manufactured exclusively for them by ST Electronics and is a breach of their signed NDA (non-disclosure agreement). While it sounds like it’s more ST Electronics’ fault than anyone, apparently it’s still very much HTC’s problem and those looking to pick up an HTC One from the Netherlands in the near future. HTC issued this quick statement to Engadget:
“HTC is disappointed in the decision. We are considering whether it will have any impact on our business and we will explore alternative solutions immediately.”
Nokia’s press release publicly called for HTC to stop “copying” them. Yes, the very same argument you had with your siblings as children. Let’s hope this ends quickly but not at the cost of functionality or quality found in the HTC One.