Tech
Germany bans OnePlus smartphones sale…again: Read the company’s statement – Times of India
OnePlus smartphones have been banned from sale in Germany, marking a significant setback for the popular mobile brand. The ban follows a legal dispute over patent issues, forcing the company to halt sales in the country. For those unaware, OnePlus returned to the German market earlier this year in January after a patent dispute with Nokia. In response, OnePlus has issued a statement addressing the situation, assuring users that existing devices will continue to receive support while they work on resolving the matter.
OnePlus vs InterDigital
The latest ban comes after a legal dispute over patent issues between OnePlus and InterDigital – a research and development company focused on wireless devices.The dispute concerns key patents for 5G and other mobile technologies.
As a result of the dispute, OnePlus phones have been temporarily removed from its German online store. However, other devices, including the OnePlus Pad 2 and OnePlus Watch 2, remain available for purchase on the website.
OnePlus issues a statement
Speaking to Allround-PC, OnePlus explains:
OnePlus places high value on intellectual property rights and fair access to standard essential patents, which is essential for driving innovation in the industry. We will continue to negotiate with InterDigital and wish to solve this matter in an amicable way. Meanwhile, our commitment in Europe remains unchanged and we will continue to provide excellent products and services to our users.
As mentioned above, OnePlus returned to Germany in January, 2024 after a gap of two years. Nokia then filed two lawsuits against Oppo and OnePlus accusing them of using patented Nokia technology without having valid licenses in its devices. In 2020, a Mannheim Regional Court ruled in favour of Nokia, resulting in the ban of Oppo and OnePlus phones in the country.