Apple Ordered to Pay Record $5.7 Billion in Haptic Patent Case, Plans to Appeal

A U.S. jury has ordered Apple Inc. to pay more than $5.7 billion to San Diego-based Taction Technology for patent infringement related to the haptic feedback feature in its iPhones and Apple Watches. The verdict, reported as the largest of its kind in U.S. history, is a significant development in a long-running legal dispute, though Apple has immediately confirmed it will appeal the decision.

The Verdict and Allegations

The jury concluded on Friday that Apple's Taptic Engine, the component that produces tapping sensations and vibrations in its devices, infringed upon two patents held by Taction. The lawsuit, originally filed in 2021, centered on Taction's proprietary technology for creating more realistic tactile feedback.

"We’re happy the jury found for Taction and vindicated its patent rights," said Taction attorney Lance Yang in a statement following the ruling. Taction develops haptic technology primarily for use in headphones and gaming headsets.

Apple's Response

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Apple swiftly rejected the jury's findings and announced its intention to appeal. The company argues that its technology is fundamentally different from the patents in question and that it does not utilize Taction's inventions.

"Apple’s Taptic Engine is fundamentally different from Taction’s technology, which Taction’s own testing of Apple’s products confirmed during trial," the company said in a statement. "Apple does not use Taction’s technology, and we will appeal."

Legal Background

This verdict marks a dramatic turn in the case. A San Diego federal judge had previously ruled in Apple's favor in 2023, determining that the company did not infringe on the patents. However, that decision was later overturned by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, which revived the case and sent it back for the jury trial that concluded last week.