Nokia launches another patent assault against Apple

Nokia, the world's largest cell phone maker, on Tuesday launched a fresh patent assault on Apple by filing a complaint with the US International Trade Commission (ITC) alleging that Apple infringed on its patents in virtually all of Apple's mobile phones, portable music players and computers.

In the present complaint, Finland-based Nokia alleged that Apple infringed seven of its patents that relate to user-interface as well as camera, antenna and power-management technologies, which Apple, the California-based maker of computers and music players uses in its products.

"These patented technologies are important to Nokia's success as they allow better user experience, lower manufacturing costs, smaller size and longer battery life for Nokia product, said Nokia in the complaint to the FTC.

Nokia accused Apple of trying to hitch a "free-ride" on Nokia's technology in wireless investments.

Nokia claims to have invested approximately €40 billion in research and development to build one of the wireless industry's strongest and broadest IPR portfolios, with over 11,000 patents and about 40 companies paying it licensing royalties for using its patents.

In October, Nokia had filed a lawsuit in the US state of Delaware, accusing Apple of infringing 10 patents and had asked Apple to pay royalties on the 33.7 million iPhones it had sold since the device was launched in 2007. (See: Nokia sues Apple for patent infringement).