Apple ordered to pay $5.7bn after losing vibration tech patent suit

Apple has been ordered to pay a massive $5.7 billion in damages after a US jury ruled that the tech giant used another company's vibration technology without permission. Taction Technology, an audio firm, had claimed in 2021 that Apple had infringed on two of its patents for haptics systems, which enable vibrations in actions such as receiving a message or pressing a button.

These vibrations are integrated into Apple devices like the iPhone and Apple Watch. Following the verdict, Apple released a statement, asserting that it had not utilized Taction's vibration technology and would appeal the decision. The company's statement emphasized that the Taptic Engine, integral to Apple devices, is fundamentally distinct from Taction's technology, which was confirmed by Taction's own product testing during the trial.

Apple highlighted that haptics, which simulate the sense of touch or feel through vibrations, have become a defining feature of modern devices, including smartphones, watches, and video game controllers. The company's Taptic Engine system, responsible for haptic feedback, was first introduced with the Apple Watch in 2014 and has since been enhanced, providing more immersive haptic experiences across Apple products.

Taction, known for producing headphones and gaming headsets, alleged that Apple's improvements in haptic vibrations infringed upon its patents, granted in 2020. Taction contended that by enhancing its haptic feedback, Apple capitalized on Taction's innovation and success by selling devices that contravened its patents, without obtaining a license or authority.

A previous ruling in 2023 by a San Diego judge found that Apple had not infringed upon Taction's patents. However, an appeal led to a September federal jury trial at the US District Court for the Southern District of California, which ruled in Taction's favor. The jury did not find that Apple infringed on the patents intentionally.

This verdict is part of a series of similar lawsuits that Apple has faced in recent years, defending itself against allegations of patent infringement. In November 2025, Apple was ordered to pay $634 million to medical technology firm Masimo after a jury found the company had infringed on a patent for a blood-oxygen reading technology.