Chinese smartphone manufacturer Xiaomi has been banned in India following a lawsuit by Ericsson India. Delhi High Court passed an order banning the import and sales of Xiaomi phones in India this monday
According to a report by SpicyIP, Xiaomi violated Ericsson’s – SEPs (Standard, Essential Patents) which are subject to FRAND (Fair, Reasonable and Non-Discriminatory) terms. The Delhi High Court mentions immediate suspension of mobile sales in India.
Xiaomi has recently launched its Redmi Note in India which is battling head-to-head with OnePlus One in Indian market.
Despite Swedish based telecommunication giant Ericsson’s continuous objections, Xiaomi was ignorant since June 2014. This resulted in filing of an injunction by Ericsson. The Delhi high court found Xiaomi guilty of ‘purported laxity’ citing the IPR Rules, 2007.
Xiaomi’s India head Manu Jain said that:
While we haven’t received an official notice from the Delhi High Court, our legal team is currently evaluating the situation based on the information we have.
India is a very important market for Xiaomi and we will respond promptly as needed and in full compliance with Indian laws. Moreover, we are open to working with Ericsson to resolve this matter amicably.
It should be noted that Ericsson has charged similar patent infringement suits on Micromax, Gionee and Intex last year and before. Last month, the Delhi High Court had directed Micromax to pay a royalty equivalent to 1% of the selling price of its devices to Ericsson.