Apple has been ordered to pay $5.7 billion (KSh739 billion) after a US jury found that the technology giant used another company's patented haptic technology without permission.
The damages award follows a lawsuit filed in 2021 by audio technology company Taction Technology, which accused Apple of infringing two patents covering haptic systems that create vibrations when users perform actions on electronic devices.
The technology is used in devices including the iPhone and Apple Watch, providing users with tactile feedback when receiving notifications, pressing buttons or interacting with applications.
Apple denied infringing Taction's patents and said it would appeal the verdict.
“While we thank the jury for their consideration, we strongly disagree with today's verdict and the damages awarded, which are entirely unsupported by the facts,” Apple said.
The company argued that its Taptic Engine is fundamentally different from Taction's technology and said testing conducted during the trial supported its position.
Haptics allow electronic devices to simulate the sensation of touch through controlled vibrations. The technology has become common in smartphones, smartwatches, gaming controllers and other consumer electronics.
Apple introduced its Taptic Engine with the Apple Watch in 2014 and has since expanded and refined haptic feedback across its product range.
Taction, which makes headphones and gaming headsets, claimed that Apple's subsequent improvements infringed patents it received in 2020.
The company accused Apple of benefiting from its patented innovations by incorporating the technology into products without a licence.
However, the case has previously gone in Apple's favour. A San Diego judge ruled in 2023 that Apple had not infringed Taction's patents.
The latest jury verdict and damages award can still be challenged through Apple's expected appeal.
