Which? applies to end UK class action over smartphone chip royalties
Which? is withdrawing its lawsuit against Qualcomm, alleging it failed to prove Qualcomm illegally inflated smartphone prices.Summary
Consumer group Which? has applied to end its UK class action lawsuit against Qualcomm, alleging the chipmaker infringed competition laws. The lawsuit, representing approximately 29 million UK Apple and Samsung smartphone users, claimed Qualcomm charged inflated fees for technology licenses, increasing consumer costs. However, Which? now believes the Competition Appeal Tribunal would find that Qualcomm did not coerce manufacturers into unfavorable licensing agreements and did not violate competition laws. Consequently, Qualcomm will not make any payment. Which? had initially sought around £17 per phone in damages for purchases made between October 1, 2015, and January 9, 2024. Qualcomm maintains its licensing practices are lawful and do not harm competition, a position previously affirmed by US courts.
(Source：Evening Standard)