Philips Loses Another Patent Case Against Garmin and Fitbit in the US

Philips has lost another patent case it had filed against navigation company Garmin and smartwatch maker Fitbit.

The International Trade Commission (ITC) in the United States confirmed the judge’s earlier findings that the U.S. companies have not infringed on the healthcare technology company’s patents.

Philips wanted a blanket import ban on Garmin and Fitbit equipment because it would infringe on Philips-invented technology for health monitoring and alarm functions. Philips said it developed the technology for its health products Lifeline, Biosensor and Sleep Diagnostic.

The company wanted to force the ITC, among other things, that Garmin and Fitbit still had to buy a license for the patents. It is the second time that the ITC has ruled against Philips.

Philips says it has taken note of the ITC’s decision. The company will study the ruling. There may be grounds for an appeal. Philips emphasizes that several things are mixed up around the alleged patent infringement by Fitbit and Garmin.

In the field of intellectual property, Philips is the most active Dutch company. The medical technology company has applied for more than 1,500 patents per year in recent years. When it comes to infringement of patent rights, Philips resolves most cases itself out of court. Sometimes it ends in a conflict, such as with Garmin and Fitbit, and then Philips finds it necessary to go to court.