Apple Ordered to Pay $5.7 Billion After Losing Vibration Tech Patent Suit

A federal jury has ordered Apple to pay $5.7 billion to Taction Technology Inc. after finding that the tech giant infringed on patents related to vibration technology used in its devices. The verdict, delivered on September 25, follows a lawsuit initially filed in 2021 by the San Diego-based audio haptics company. The case centered on Apple's "Taptic Engine," which provides haptic feedback in iPhones and Apple Watches through vibrations during interactions and notifications.

Taction Technology accused Apple of utilizing its patented vibration systems, with the jury in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California ultimately siding with Taction. The lawsuit had a complex history, initially being dismissed in 2023 before being revived by a federal appeals court in 2025. Although the jury found infringement, it determined that Apple's actions were not willful.

Apple has strongly disagreed with the jury's decision and the substantial damages awarded, stating that its Taptic Engine operates differently from Taction's technology and that it does not use Taction's patented inventions. The company has announced its intention to appeal the verdict.