Large tech group backs Apple in lawsuit against Qualcomm
Microsoft, Google, Samsung, Facebook, Netflix, Uber, and others are all part of the CCIA, but surprisingly, Apple is not a member despite receiving the organization’s support in the fight against Qualcomm.
As Reuters reports, the CCIA says that banning Apple from importing iPhones made in other countries would lead to what it describes as significant shocks to supply for phones, which in the end would cause increased prices for consumers.
“If the ITC were to grant this exclusion order, it would help Qualcomm use its monopoly power for further leverage against Apple and allow them to drive up prices on consumer devices, ” Ed Black, CCIA CEO, was quoted as saying. “What’s at stake here is certainly the availability of iPhones and other smartphones at better prices.”
The dispute between Apple and Qualcomm started in January this year after Cupertino decided to file a lawsuit against the chipmaker following FTC claims that the company pays higher patent royalties for baseband chips. In its turn, Qualcomm files a lawsuit against Apple as well, requiring US authorities to ban the sale of iPhone in the United States, claiming that models with Intel modems violate its patents.
Neither Microsoft nor Google issued individual statements on their support for Apple and Cupertino itself remains tight-lipped on these latest moves, though there is information that the company is actually funding the defense of its iPhone makers in the lawsuit against Qualcomm.
