Blackberry Sues Snap Over Messaging Technology
Blackberry phones are not around much anymore, but new Blackberry lawsuits are getting around.
The company has sued Facebook, Instagram, and now Snap for allegedly infringing on its messaging patents. Back in the day, BBM messaging was the bomb.
But lagging behind competition from Apple, Samsung, and other smartphone makers, Blackberry sold its cell phone rights two years ago and is pursuing other strategies -- like litigation.
"Opportunities for Partnership"
In the latest lawsuit against Snap, the parent of Snapchat, Blackberry said it had been trying to work with the company for more than a year. A spokesperson said there are "far more opportunities for partnership than disagreement."
"While we continue to hold this door open, we also have a strong claim that Snap infringed on our intellectual property, harmed our shareholders, and we have an obligation to pursue appropriate legal remedies," the spokesperson said.
Blackberry accuses Snap of infringing on six patents, which were issued between 2012 and 2014. Two of the patents are also at issue in the case against Facebook.
According to court records, Blackberry says Snap is using its technology for messaging, mapping and advertising. In the Facebook and Instagram case, Blackberry says it invented the core aspects of modern messaging.
Facebook Slapback
Snap has not responded to the latest lawsuit, but Facebook has stated its position. It will fight.
"Blackberry's suit sadly reflects the current state of its messaging business, the company said. "Having abandoned its efforts to innovate, Blackberry is now looking to tax the innovation of others."
Related Resources:
- It's 2018, And BlackBerry Just Sued Facebook (Mashable)
- Hospitals Open to Hacks From Brain Scans (FindLaw's Technologist)
- Cryptocurrency Founders Charged With Fraud (FindLaw's Technologist)
