Due to a patent infringement case that Facebook recently lost, its apps like WhatsApp and Instagram may soon be prohibited, at least in Germany where it lost the case. Blackberry dragged Facebook to court over WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram. Blackberry claims that these apps are infringing its patent. The preliminary verdict of the court is in favour of Blackberry. In its current form, Facebook may no longer offer some of its own apps, including WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram in Germany.
The functions of these apps are actually what is infringing on Blackberry’s patent(s). While Blackberry has let the smartphone train pass, Facebook is swimming on a wave of success with its smartphone services. Blackberry does not see itself as a patent troll, only to earn money with such lawsuits.
Facebook may no longer offer WhatsApp and Instagram in Germany
A spokeswoman for the court made it clear: “By the judgments, the offer and delivery of the aforementioned applications in the FRG are prohibited as far as they use the patent patents.”
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In nine cases, the court ruled for Blackberry. However, Facebook will not switch off its own smartphone services. Instead, it is being rebuilt…Facebook said: “We plan to adapt our products accordingly so that we can continue to offer them in Germany.”
Facebook is reconstructing its apps
It’s about technical subtleties, but Facebook will certainly quickly find their own solutions. In the worst case, Facebook would probably have to license the patents. However, these popular apps can’t just simply disappear from the German market. It does not seem that users have anything to worry about. Nevertheless, we can not ignore the possibility of severe consequences.
The functions and operability of these apps may take a completely new design. Do you think apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram can leave the German market for this? Let us know your thought in the comments.