Overview
Micron Technology has been ordered to pay $445 million to Netlist for infringing on Netlist’s patents in memory-module technology. This decision was made by a U.S. jury in the Eastern District of Texas.
Details of the Case
- Patent Infringement: The jury determined that Micron’s semiconductor-memory products violated two of Netlist’s patents. These patents pertain to technology that enhances the capacity and performance of memory modules.
- Willful Infringement: The jury found that Micron’s infringement was willful. This finding could potentially increase the damages by up to three times, depending on the judge’s decision.
- Previous Cases: Netlist previously won a $303 million verdict against Samsung in a similar case concerning high-performance computer memory patents.
Responses and Statements
- Micron Technology: As of now, representatives for Micron have not commented on the verdict.
- Netlist: Jason Sheasby, Netlist’s attorney, expressed gratitude for the jury’s acknowledgment of Netlist’s innovation.
Background Information
- Micron Technology: Based in Boise, Idaho, Micron has seen its stock price rise this year due to increased demand for its chips, which are essential for artificial-intelligence technology.
- Netlist: Headquartered in Irvine, California, Netlist filed the lawsuit against Micron in 2022. Netlist claimed that three of Micron’s semiconductor memory-module lines infringed its patents.
- Micron’s Defense: Micron denied the allegations, arguing that the patents in question were invalid.
Conclusion
This case highlights the ongoing legal battles in the high-performance computing sector over patent rights and technology innovations. The outcome reinforces the importance of intellectual property and its impact on business operations and financial performance.
https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/64861663/netlist-inc-v-micron-technology-texas-llc/