i4i vs. Microsoft - Patent Infringement Case

In August 2009, a federal jury in Texas found that Microsoft willfully infringed i4i's patent with the Microsoft Word 2003 and Word 2007 software, and awarded damages to i4i for Microsoft’s infringement in the amount of US$200 million.

The Court further awarded enhanced damages of US$40 million for Microsoft’s ‘willful’ infringement, post-verdict damages of US$144,060.00 per day from May 21, 2009 until the date of August’s final judgment and pre-judgment interest in the amount of US$37,097,032.00 up to May 20, 2009 and US$21,102.00 per day thereafter until the date of August’s final judgment. The total award was around US$290 million.

The Court gave Microsoft 60 days to stop selling the popular Word software.

Microsoft are appealing. The appeal is set for September 23, 2009. Loudon Owen, Chairman of i4i, says, "We firmly believe that the U. S. District Court made the right decision on the merits of the case. We are confident that we will prevail on the appeal by Defendant Microsoft." Mr. Owen adds, "This is a vital case for inventors and entrepreneurial companies who, like i4i, are damaged by the willful infringement of their patents by competitors; particularly competitors as large and powerful as Microsoft."

We will provide you with an update when the appeal decision becomes available.