In what might amount to a “David vs. Goliath” battle between tech companies, home speaker maker Sonos filed lawsuits against Google in two federal court systems, after the tech giant allegedly infringed Sonos’ patents.
Sonos is asking the courts for financial damages and a ban on Google’s consumer technology products, including smartphones, laptops and speakers, in the U.S. region. Google was sued in Federal District Court in Los Angeles and the United States International Trade Commission court.
“Google is an important partner with whom we have collaborated successfully for years, including bringing the Google Assistant to the Sonos platform last year,” Sonos CEO Patrick Spence said in a statement. “However, Google has been blatantly and knowingly copying our patented technology in creating its audio products. Despite our repeated & extensive efforts over the last few years, Google has not shown any willingness to work with us on a mutually beneficial solution. We’re left with no choice but to litigate in the interest of protecting our inventions, our customers, and the spirit of innovation that’s defined Sonos from the beginning.”
Among the patents that has reportedly been infringed on is Sonos’ technology that allows wireless speakers to synchronize with one another, a feature that was eventually added to Google’s line of speakers.
The tech company told The New York Times that both Amazon and Google have infringed on Sonos’ patents, but the company ultimately decided to only sue of the companies at the time. While the company is suing Google over five patents, Sonos reportedly believes both companies may have collectedly violated over 100 patents. It is Sonos’ close work with Google and Amazon that reportedly allowed the company’s to copy its technology.
Google said it disputes the claims and “will defend them vigorously.” Amazon said its Echo line of speakers were developed independently by the company. Sonos lists hundreds of home speaker-related patents on its website.
Despite this conflict, Sonos continued to work with Google. Some of Sonos speakers added Google Assistant functionality last year.
