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Japan: MacBook part maker sues Apple for patent infringement

By  |  December 18, 2014

A Japanese manufacturer of a part used in Apple MacBooks has filed a lawsuit against the company for patent infringement, reports say.

Japanese media reported Wednesday that Shimano Manufacturing filed a suit in Tokyo against Apple; the firm is seeking $8.5 million in damages.

Shimano claims Apple infringed on Shimano’s patent for a precision component used in the joint of Apple MacBook power adaptors. Apple has denied the allegations, which included claims Apple is abusing its market dominance to strong-arm Shimano to demand discounts for the component. Claims also argue that Apple cut its orders for the part in 2012 and instead outsourced foreign parts makers for the same component.

Reports say in addition to damages, Shimano is seeking an undisclosed amount of antitrust fines against Apple.

Full content: Patently Apple

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