Samsung Ordered to Pay $117.7 Million in Patent Case Filed by Maxell Over Smart Tech Infringement

Samsung has been hit with a $117.7 million penalty after a U.S. District Court in Texarkana, Texas ruled in favor of Maxell (formerly Hitachi Maxell) in a major patent infringement lawsuit. The court’s early verdict marks a significant development in an ongoing legal dispute involving several of Samsung’s popular consumer products.

Originally filed in September 2023, the case alleged that Samsung infringed on seven of Maxell’s patents. These patents cover technologies related to smartphone and tablet unlocking mechanisms, data management, and smart home integrations. The complaint targeted a wide range of Samsung products including Galaxy smartphones, laptops, the SmartThings station, and various smart appliances.

According to a report by The Korea Herald, Samsung had previously licensed Maxell’s patented technology under a 10-year agreement from 2011 to 2021. However, once the deal expired, Samsung allegedly continued using the technology without renewing the license or negotiating new terms. This prompted Maxell to file legal actions across multiple jurisdictions, including courts in the U.S., Germany, and Japan.

Samsung is expected to appeal the Texarkana court's decision, signaling that the legal dispute is far from resolved. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for future patent licensing disputes in the tech industry.