Taptic Engine Patent Infringement Verdict Sends Apple Reeling

A US jury ruled that Apple's Taptic Engine infringes on two patents held by California-based company Taction Technology, leading to a $5.7 billion verdict.

The technology has been used in various Apple products since its introduction in the first Apple Watch in September 2014 and expanded to iPhones for haptic feedback.

Taction filed its patent infringement lawsuit against Apple in 2021, accusing the company of directly and indirectly infringing on two patents through the Taptic Engine used in iPhone and Apple Watch models.

Last Friday's verdict was met with a statement from Taction saying the jury had 'vindicated its patent rights,' while Apple said it strongly disagreed with the decision and would appeal.

Following the verdict, litigation funder Burford Capital disclosed that it has a financial entitlement in the case, which could be worth $1.4 billion if the $5.7 billion verdict is paid in full.