What is the licensing framework of standard essential patents (SEPs) for
connectivity standards such as 5G and Wi-Fi? How will the framework
change with the Internet of Things (IoT)? This book provides
comprehensive answers to these questions.
For over two decades, connectivity standards have been the subject of
litigation and controversy around the globe. Now, with the introduction
of 5G and the emergence of the world of connected objects, or the IoT,
the licensing framework for SEPs is becoming even more contentious. In
order to bring clarity to the debate, this book analyses and explains
key components of a fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory (FRAND)
licence for SEPs; clarifies the economic, policy and market background
of SEP disputes; examines the interrelated application of contract,
patent and competition laws; and describes the approaches by courts and
regulators in the EU, US and the UK. Importantly, the book also assesses
how the experience from the smartphone and ICT industries can be applied
in a new environment of the IoT, and considers what needs to be changed
in the future SEP licensing landscape.
The book provides a holistic coverage of SEP licensing issues in an
attempt to reduce uncertainty within this highly complex and technical
area, and will be useful to practitioners, policy makers, SMEs and large
technology companies in the IoT, as well as academics interested in the
field.
