Lenovo Backs Google’s Intervention in ITC Probe; Nokia Has Reservations

Lenovo supports Google’s motion to intervene in the Tariff Act Section 337 investigation at the International Trade Commission into Nokia allegations that Lenovo computers and parts infringe five Nokia patents, said the PC vendor in comments (login required) posted Tuesday in docket 337-TA-1208. Nokia doesn’t oppose Google’s intervention, said its filing (login required), also posted Tuesday, but does have concerns. “It is undisputed that Google’s interests in this investigation are aligned with Respondents Lenovo and contrary to Complainants Nokia, and thus Google and Lenovo should coordinate accordingly,” said Nokia. Google’s motion said it doesn’t seek to participate in any relief phase of the investigation, “but it has already filed a public interest statement” warning against an import ban of Lenovo Chromebooks when COVID-19 demand for remote-learning connectivity tools is at an historic high, said Nokia: “Google’s intentions regarding the relief phase are thus unclear.” Google didn’t comment Tuesday. Administrative Law Judge Dee Lord ordered Google, Lenovo and Nokia to file briefs by Wednesday showing cause why the investigation shouldn't be “severed” into two separate probes (see 2008160004). Nokia's comments indicated it plans to oppose Lord's plan to sever the investigation. "As Nokia will explain more fully in its forthcoming response," Google's "limited participation as an intervenor "should not impede the ability to proceed efficiently in this Investigation without severance," it said. Nokia said "Google can be added as an intervenor without impacting the efficient adjudication of the issues in a single investigation."