Two major computer makers, Acer and ASUS, have temporarily suspended direct sales of desktop and laptop PCs in Germany after a court ruling in favour of Nokia over a patent dispute.
A German court issued an injunction barring the companies from offering, marketing, importing or possessing certain affected devices in the country. While the ruling prevents Acer and ASUS from bringing new products into Germany, it does not apply to retailers, who can continue selling existing inventory.
Customers can still purchase available models for now, but prolonged litigation could lead to supply shortages in one of Europe’s largest technology markets.
The dispute centres on High-Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC), also known as H.265, a widely used video compression standard. Nokia alleged that Acer and ASUS infringed three of its patents related to HEVC technology. Chinese electronics maker Hisense was also named in the case but secured a licence from Nokia earlier this year.
HEVC is considered essential to modern computing, underpinning video streaming, video conferencing, operating systems and media applications. The technology is supported by most graphics processors and system-on-chip platforms. Without HEVC support, device performance and compatibility with widely used services could be significantly affected.
As a standard-essential patent (SEP), HEVC must be licensed under fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory (FRAND) terms. While patent holders are required to offer licences, disputes frequently arise over what constitutes fair conditions.
Germany is known for strict enforcement of patent law, particularly in SEP cases. Unless a licensing agreement is reached or the ruling is overturned, Acer and ASUS will remain unable to import new PCs into the German market.
