Recent rulings in English courts have allowed parties to seek temporary patent licenses while awaiting trial, as seen in the case involving Amazon and Nokia.
In 2023, Lenovo initiated legal action against Ericsson in London's High Court, part of a series of lawsuits filed by either company worldwide concerning 4G and 5G wireless technologies.
The two firms have also engaged in litigation in Brazil, Colombia, and the United States, including North Carolina and the U.S. International Trade Commission.
The core of their dispute revolves around the fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory (FRAND) terms for licensing Lenovo and Ericsson's patents.
Conflicts over FRAND licensing have sparked extensive legal confrontations within the telecommunications sector. Following a 2020 ruling by the UK Supreme Court, English courts are empowered to establish global FRAND terms.
In London, Lenovo sought a ruling asserting that a reasonable licensor would agree to a temporary license while awaiting the final resolution of FRAND terms.
Although its initial request was denied last year, the Court of Appeal reversed that decision on Friday.
Judge Richard Arnold determined that Ericsson had violated its duty to act in good faith by pursuing legal claims in other jurisdictions, despite Lenovo's willingness to accept the FRAND terms determined by English courts.
He stated that "a willing licensor in Ericsson's position would enter into an interim license with Lenovo," expressing hope that Ericsson would now opt to do so.
Arnold also indicated that the FRAND terms for the interim license would require Lenovo to pay "a nine-figure dollar sum" to Ericsson.
Lenovo's Chief Legal Officer, Laura Quatela, remarked that the ruling "not only affirms Lenovo's status as a willing licensee but also reinforces our dedication to promoting transparency and fairness in global FRAND licensing."
Ericsson chose not to provide any comments on the matter.