SAN DIEGO, Feb. 22 (UPI) -- A San Diego jury Thursday said Microsoft Corp. must pay $1.52 billion for infringing on Alcatel-Lucent patents for MP3 audio technology.
Microsoft pledged to challenge the verdict.
The federal jury said Microsoft violated Alcatel-Lucent's patents with Windows Media player, including the version in the new Vista operating system.
In its verdict, the jury assessed damages based on each Windows PC sold since May 2003.
The decision lets Alcatel-Lucent, the world's biggest communications-equipment maker, seek an order barring Microsoft from using the patented technology.
The verdict could have broader implications if Alcatel-Lucent pursues claims against other companies that use the widespread MP3 technology, ZNet news reported. The company has not said if it would do that.
"We made strong arguments supporting our view and we're pleased with the court's decision," an Alcatel-Lucent spokeswoman said.
Microsoft said the verdict was "completely unsupported by the law or the facts." It will seek relief from the trial court, "and, if necessary, appeal," attorney Tom Burt said.
MP3 technology is the standard for playing music and sound files on a computer, cell phone and digital-music player.
