Apple sues Motorola for patent infringement

Apple has accused Motorola of inappropriate use of some of its software, including touch screens and other display tools.

The iPhone maker has filed a nine-page document in the US District Court of Wisconsin, claiming that its rival's actions are damaging its business.

"Motorola's infringing activities have caused and will continue to cause Apple irreparable harm, for which it has no adequate remedy at law unless Motorola's infringing activities are enjoined," the document said.

Apple's move is the latest in a tit-for-tat legal dispute between the two companies. Motorola is currently suing Apple, alleging infringement of 18 patents in the iPhone, App Store and MobileMe.

"Motorola has innovated and patented throughout every cycle of the telecoms industry evolution, from Motorola's invention of the cell phone to its development of premier smartphone products," said Kirk Dailey, corporate vice president of intellectual property at Motorola Mobility, at the time.

"After Apple's late entry into the telecoms market we engaged in lengthy negotiations, but Apple has refused to take a licence. We had no choice but to file these complaints to halt Apple's continued infringement."

In a statement to V3.co.uk, Motorola argued that it has not had time to fully review Apple's counterclaims.

"With that said, Motorola has a leading intellectual property portfolio, one of the strongest in the industry, and we intend to vigorously defend ourselves in this matter," it added.

"We are confident in our position and will pursue our litigation to halt Apple's continued infringement."