Smartphone maker Nokia (NOK +2.63%) has filed suit against Research In Motion (RIMM +4.22%) alleging breach of contract related to the sale of WLAN products with Wi-Fi capabilities. The two companies entered into a cross-licensing agreement related to standards-essential patents in 2003, but Nokia says RIM overstepped its boundaries.
In a statement, Nokia said RIM sought arbitration in 2011, arguing that the license extended beyond cellular essentials. According to Nokia, a Swedish arbitrator ruled against RIM in November, finding that "RIM was in breach of contract and is not entitled to manufacture or sell WLAN products without first agreeing royalties with Nokia."
Nokia this week filed a lawsuit in U.S. federal court seeking to enforce the tribunal's ruling. Nokia said it has filed actions in the U.S., U.K., and Canada.
