Apple faces legal trouble over alleged misuse of wireless charging technology

Apple

Wireless charging technology in Apple products has become something we rely on daily. While the charging speeds may not be the fastest, it certainly saves us from the hassle of tangled cords. However, this convenient feature is now at the heart of a legal battle between Apple and a South Korean company, LS Cable & Systems.

What’s the Lawsuit about?

LS Cable is accusing Apple of stealing its wireless charging technology. The company filed a lawsuit this month in the US District Court in California, claiming that Apple used its patented wireless charging method without permission. The patent, known as US8013568, was first registered in 2011 and covers charging devices without needing to physically plug them in.

LS Cable isn’t just making noise now, they’ve been ahead of the curve for years. Back in 2011, they introduced a smartphone cover that could wirelessly charge an iPhone 4 and Galaxy S2. Then, in 2013, they unveiled a super-thin wireless charging module for smartphones. Fast forward to 2017, and Apple launched its own wireless charging pad, AirPower. The idea was great, but it ended up getting canceled due to overheating issues.

Apple’s alleged copying

Now, LS Cable says Apple used their technology for its devices like iPhones, Apple Watches, and AirPods. Not only that, but LS Cable claims that Apple also adopted Broadcom’s wireless charging chip, which is part of the technology they argue was copied from their patent. According to LS Cable, they reached out to Apple multiple times—starting in 2019—warning them about the infringement, but Apple never responded.

What’s next?

This lawsuit is the first time LS Cable has taken legal action against Apple in the U.S., and it’s a big deal. If LS Cable wins, Apple could face a hefty payout. For now, all eyes are on the courtroom to see how this wireless charging war unfolds.