In a surprising twist that could shake the foundations of Apple’s wireless charging tech, South Korean company LS Cable & System has launched a legal battle against the tech giant in the US District Court for the Northern District of California. This marks the first time LS Cable & System has challenged Apple in the American legal arena over patent rights.
At the heart of the dispute is LS Cable & System’s patent (US8013568), which they claim Apple has infringed upon with its popular devices including the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods.
The patent, which deals with innovative wireless charging technology, was initially registered in 2011 but was later expanded through a reexamination process in 2023, fortifying its scope and validity.
The drama began unfolding back in 2019 when LS Cable & System sent Apple warning letters about potential patent infringements. Despite these communications, including detailed “claim charts” in 2020, no satisfactory resolution was reached, leading to this courtroom showdown.
Interestingly, this legal tussle brings back memories of Apple’s own venture into advanced wireless charging with the now-defunct AirPower project. Unveiled with much fanfare in 2017, AirPower was supposed to be the ultimate accessory for charging multiple devices simultaneously but was shelved due to overheating issues. Now, LS Cable & System alleges that Apple might have opted to use their patented technology rather than perfecting their own.
LS Cable & System isn’t new to the wireless charging game; they introduced “Chaver” in 2011, a sleek wireless charger compatible with the iPhone 4/4S and Samsung Galaxy S2. By 2013, they claimed the title for the world’s thinnest wireless charging module, showing their deep roots in the technology Apple is now accused of infringing upon.
For iPhone enthusiasts, this case could have broader implications on future device features or even pricing if LS Cable & System’s claims hold up in court.
