Microsoft Scores Win in Uniloc Patent Case

A federal judge has tossed out a $388 million damage award against Microsoft in a patent case that pitted the software giant against a security company called Uniloc.

The judge vacated the jury’s verdict Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for Rhode Island, marking another twist in a case that has gone on for six years. The case began in 2003 when Uniloc sued Microsoft for infringing on a Uniloc patent relating to its anti-piracy technology. In 2006, a federal judge ruled in favor of Microsoft, but that decision was overturned later on appeal.

In April, a Rhode Island jury awarded Uniloc $388 million in damages after finding Microsoft had violated the company’s patent.

“We are pleased that the court has vacated the jury verdict and entered judgment in favor of Microsoft,” said Microsoft spokesman Kevin Kutz.

Officials at Uniloc did not return a message for comment regarding the company’s plans, and whether or not they will appeal the judge's ruling.