Nokia slams Qualcomm's 'unfair trade practices'

Nokia has filed a complaint with the US International Trade Commission (ITC) alleging that Qualcomm has engaged in "unfair trade practices" by infringing five Nokia patents in its CDMA and WCDMA/GSM chipsets.

The Finnish mobile giant has requested that the ITC begin an investigation and issue an exclusion order to bar import into the US of "infringing" Qualcomm chipsets.

"Qualcomm's unfair trade practices include importing products, selling products for importation, and/or selling products after importation, and inducing others to import products such as handsets, that infringe Nokia patented technology in certain Qualcomm GSM/WCDMA and CDMA2000 chipsets," Nokia stated.

The patents in question relate to technologies that improve the performance and efficiency of wireless communication devices as well as enabling lower manufacturing costs, smaller product size and increased battery life.

"There is significant evidence to warrant an ITC investigation into Qualcomm's business conduct," said Rick Simonson, chief financial officer at Nokia.

"We are taking this action to stop Qualcomm's practice of copying Nokia's patented technology, without permission, and making these innovations available to its chipset customers.

"We are seeking the same remedies Qualcomm has sought against Nokia in multiple venues around the world. Nokia will continue to ensure that its rights and competitive advantage are protected."