TECHNOLOGY

The Streaming Tech Showdown: Nokia vs. Warner Brothers

USATue Nov 04 2025

Nokia is taking Warner Brothers to court in multiple countries. The Finnish company alleges that Warner Brothers is using its video technology without permission. This technology is crucial for smooth and enjoyable streaming experiences, encompassing video compression, content delivery, and recommendation systems.

Nokia has filed lawsuits in the U.S., Europe, and Brazil. They seek compensation for the unauthorized use of their patented technology. Nokia states that while they prefer to avoid legal disputes, they will protect their intellectual property.

This is not Nokia's first patent-related legal battle. Recently, they won a case against Amazon. Both the U.S. International Trade Commission and German courts ruled that Amazon's devices infringed on Nokia's video patents. This led to a licensing agreement between the two companies.

The Current Lawsuit

The ongoing lawsuit involves 18 patents related to streaming features, including:

  • Video encoding
  • Skip mode
  • Personalized media playlists

Nokia argues that these features are essential for a superior streaming experience.

Seeking an Agreement

Nokia hopes to reach a settlement with Warner Brothers, urging them to compensate for the use of their technology. If an agreement cannot be reached, the legal battle could extend for a significant period.

questions

    How can companies balance the protection of their intellectual property with the need for innovation and collaboration?
    Will this lawsuit lead to a new movie where a Finnish telecom giant battles a Hollywood studio?
    What are the potential economic consequences for both Nokia and Warner Brothers if the lawsuit is resolved in favor of Nokia?

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