U.S. Patent Office Invalidates Apple’s “Pinch-To-Zoom” Patent

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has invalidated 20 patents held by Apple, including its “pinch-to-zoom” patent. There was controversy surrounding the “pinch-to-zoom” technology due to Apple’s lawsuit against Samsung. In a trial earlier this year, the technology was key to a trial where it was the basis of some of the $1.05 billion in damages awarded to Apple. During the trial the jury found that all but two of Samsung’s patents infringed upon Apple’s “pinch-to-zoom” patent. Legal experts say that Apple still has an opportunity to appeal the U.S. Patent Office’s decision. If Apple fails to get its patents validated, the Cupertino company may stand to lose some of the $1.05 billion in damages.

In an effort to get the judge to grant a new trial, Samsung has filed a motion with the court documenting the invalidation of the 20 patents. Apple and Samsung will be in court this week for post-trial hearings, the presiding judge is expected to rule on motions from both parties and will decide the issue of damages.

Read more at appleinsider.com.