UEI Sues Logitech for Patent Infringement

Universal Electronics Inc. (UEI), (NASDAQ:UEIC) has provided remote control technology to Logitech Inc. (NASDAQ: LOGI) since 2004, but the licensee continued to use the technology even after its deal with UEI expired.

According to UEI, the company tried to renegotiate terms of the licensing agreement, but Logitech refused the terms and kept on using UEI's patented technology.

So UEI filed a lawsuit against Logitech charging infringement of 17 patented technologies. The complaint relates to multiple Logitech remote control products, including the Harmony H300, H650, H700, H900, One, H1100, Logitech Revue (for Google TV), Harmony remote apps for iOS and Android platforms, and other applications and/or programming for touch screen mobile devices.

UEI's press release, issued today, is reproduced below.

Files Patent Infringement Lawsuit

CYPRESS, Calif.--Universal Electronics Inc. (UEI), (NASDAQ:UEIC) announced it has filed a lawsuit against Logitech, Inc., Logitech International S.A. and Logitech Europe S.A. in the United States District Court, Central District of California for infringement of seventeen of UEI’s patents related to remote control technology anyway.

From July 1, 2004 until June 30, 2010, Logitech previously licensed certain of UEI’s patented technologies under a renewable license. Prior to the expiration of the license, throughout the remainder of 2010 and until the filing of this complaint, UEI sought to negotiate reasonable business terms for the renewal of the license agreement but Logitech was not willing to do so. Meanwhile, Logitech continued selling its products that were previously covered under the license agreement without permission or proper payment, according to the lawsuit.

The complaint relates to multiple Logitech remote control products, including the Harmony H300, H650, H700, H900, One, H1100, Logitech Revue (for Google TV), Harmony remote apps for iOS and Android platforms, and other applications and/or programming for touch screen mobile devices.

“The decision to proceed with this patent infringement filing was based on careful consideration of all of the issues,” explained Richard A. Firehammer Jr., UEI's senior vice president and general counsel. “UEI has positive business relationships with much of the consumer electronics industry. Nevertheless, the decision was made to look to the court system to ensure that UEI is fairly compensated for the use of its technology. We are confident that the strength of our intellectual property will be upheld.”

Since its inception, UEI’s staff of scientists and engineers have designed and developed innovative ideas in the remote control field. These technology innovations represent a significant investment for UEI and are protected by a substantial number of patents, patent applications, and trade secrets.

At this time, UEI will not be providing further comment regarding this legal action while litigation is pending. The company will provide public updates as appropriate.

About Universal Electronics Inc.

Founded in 1986, Universal Electronics Inc. (UEI) is the global leader in wireless control technology for the connected home. UEI designs, develops, and delivers innovative solutions that enable consumers to control entertainment devices, digital media, and home systems. The company’s broad portfolio of patented technologies and database of infrared control software have been adopted by many Fortune 500 companies in the consumer electronics, subscription broadcast, and computing industries. UEI sells and licenses wireless control products through distributors and retailers under the One For All brand name. For additional information, please visit our website at http://www.uei.com.