Innovation Asset Blog

FTC intervention yields Google patent resolution

Google's proprietary technologies have come under extensive scrutiny in recent times amid a 19-month probe launched by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. Regulators arrived at a conclusive decision this week, however, finding that the company's search algorithm designs and patent licensing practices did not unfairly improve market standing or merit sanctions.

Under the terms of the FTC settlement, Google will fulfill its commitment to provide competitors with fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory (FRAND) terms for licensing proprietary smartphone and tablet technologies obtained via its acquisition of the now defunct Motorola Mobility.

"The changes Google has agreed to make will ensure that consumers continue to reap the benefits of competition in the online marketplace and in the market for innovative wireless devices they enjoy," said FTC chairman Jon Leibowitz. "This was an incredibly thorough and careful investigation by the Commission, and the outcome is a strong and enforceable set of agreements."

According to Wired, the specifics of the agreement will force Google to consult with neutral third parties in an effort to resolve competitive disagreements before seeking any further product sales bans. The company will also be asked to published a clear set of interoperability standards to promote the responsible and productive use and refinement of mobile technology components.ADNFCR-3832-ID-800939038-ADNFCR

Peter Ackerman

Peter Ackerman

Founder & CEO, Innovation Asset Group, Inc.