Apple, Google Patent Bloodbath May Be Indefinitely Postponed
Despite the acrimony that has grown between Apple and Google over patent infringement allegations — mostly related to Android — the companies apparently are open to talking through some of their differences. Or perhaps they’re just setting up the appearance of good-faith negotiations in advance of a no-holds-barred legal slugfest.
The great patent showdown expected to eventually take place between Apple and Google in some courtroom, somewhere, may never happen. The two companies are in talks on a range of intellectual property issues, according to an exclusive report by Reuters that specifically cites the issues the two companies have with each other over mobile patents.
To date, the talks have consisted of a phone conversation between Google CEO Larry Page and Apple CEO Tim Cook, supplemented by lower-level executive discussions, according to Reuters.
Of course, the uber conglomerates may wind up in a courtroom despite the outreach. Certainly, neither company would be cowed by the prospect of huge legal fees if it comes to that.
Apple has just scored an unmitigated victory against Samsung and has many reasons to press forward, not the least of which is Steve Job’s legacy. Jobs was never one to shy away from a patent fight, especially against Google.