Competition in the smartphone market is fiercer than ever. Manufacturers such as Apple, Samsung, Oppo, Huawei and Xiaomi are constantly launching new products and developing new technologies for different user groups to stay ahead of their competitors. But sometimes competition takes place behind the scenes, not just during the sale. For example, these tech giants often try to outdo each other in court. The most recent case occurred in China, where Xiaomi filed a request to void Huawei’s panoramic imaging patent. Details are here…

According to a notice from China’s National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), Xiaomi has filed a request to void Huawei’s panoramic imaging patent. The patent in question is titled “ZL201380073251.6”, “Panoramic Image Acquisition Method and Terminal”. In fact, this development did not surprise anyone. In February, CNIPA reported that Huawei had filed a lawsuit against Xiaomi for allegedly infringing four of its patents.

Said patents include methods and devices for control signaling, feedback systems during carrier aggregation, panoramic image capture, and a lock screen for mobile terminals. In response, Xiaomi stressed that the two companies are actively negotiating patent licenses and are considering mediation to reach an agreement. They believe that intellectual property licensing and collaboration fosters innovation and the public interest. Xiaomi also drew attention to China’s intellectual property protection system, which offers various resolution mechanisms, including administrative and judicial mediation.

It is seen that the negotiations between the two companies ended negatively and they will take the dispute to court in the future. We can’t provide direct information on litigation in China, but it’s worth noting that patent litigation tends to be lengthy processes around the world. As a result, the outcome of this situation is difficult to predict. Keep in mind that relationships between tech companies can be unique and can reach an agreement despite ongoing tensions. It is not yet known how CNIPA will evaluate Xiaomi’s application and whether this event will turn into a full-scale legal battle.