Nokia has won a landmark case against Apple for using technologies patented by the Finnish phone giant in its iPhone.
The victory is the result of Apple settling a patent dispute, which began in October 2009 and led to more than 40 claims and counter-actions.
Nokia sued Apple in the United States, arguing the iPhone-maker was getting a “free ride” on technologies patented by Nokia.
The terms of the deal have remain confidential but Nokia has said its second-quarter earnings will be boosted by the agreement to settle all litigation.
According to a report in the Globe and Mail, Nokia is now understood to be receiving up to 2% of iPhone revenues – estimated at around £26bn this year.
It is believed it involves a one-off payment plus future royalties and its share price has been boosted as a result.
Nokia is forecast will lose its market lead over Apple later this year.
An Apple spokesman said “We’re glad to put this behind us and get back to focusing on our respective businesses.”
The result of the case may encourage Nokia to chase other market competitors in similar actions. It has said it will be more aggressive in its patenting in future.
“This settlement…. enables us to focus on further licensing opportunities in the mobile communications market,” CEO Stephen Elop said in a statement. “We are very pleased to have Apple join the growing number of Nokia licensees… This settlement demonstrates Nokia’s industry leading patent portfolio.”
