U.S.: FTC scrutinizes Google’s smartphone patents

Recently, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has been investigating Google’s conduct in its Internet search and search advertising businesses. According to the New York Times, this focus now revolves around smartphone patents, especially technology patents, and the conduct of Google’s Motorola Mobility subsidiary. Google currently owns patents covering communications and data-handling technologies that are crucial for the basic operation of smartphones and tablets. However, it has gained an unfair advantage when it agreed to buy Motorola Mobility for $12.5 billion and picked up 17,000 patents, including large important ones relating to wireless devices. In June, the FTC sought information from Google and smartphone rivals including Apple and Microsoft, through questioning representatives of the companies. The F.T.C. investigation shows that it is keeping an eye on the patent buildup up by Google and other high-tech companies.

Full Content: NY Times

Related Content: The Google Book Settlement & the Uncertain Future of Copyright

Want more news? Subscribe to CPI’s free daily newsletter for more headlines and updates on antitrust developments around the world.