Pixel 7 Series Banned in Japan. This decision was taken by a court in Tokyo. The reason is a major legal dispute over a technology patent. Now, the newer models, Pixel 8 and Pixel 9, are also at risk of getting banned.
This happened because of a big dispute (fight) over 4G technology used inside the phone. Another company said that Google used their technology without asking.
What is the reason for the ban Pixel 7 phones ?
The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro use 4G (LTE) technology to connect to mobile networks. But a South Korean company named Pantech said that this technology is their patent-which means they have the legal rights to it. Pantech filed a case in the Tokyo District Court. They said Google is using their technology without permission. The court agreed with Pantech and gave an order to ban the Pixel 7 phones in Japan.
What did the court say?
The Tokyo court said that Google broke the patent rule. The court also said that Google was not honest during talks with Pantech. The court called Google’s behavior “insincere” and said the company did not try to solve the matter properly. So, the court gave a strong order. It banned the sale, import, and advertisement of Pixel 7 and 7 Pro phones in Japan.
This is the first time Japan has banned a phone for this kind of reason.This ban includes both physical and online stores across Japan.
Are Pixel 8 and 9 also in trouble?
Yes. Pantech has already filed a new complaint against Pixel 8 and Pixel 9. If the court finds the same issue in these phones, they could also be banned in Japan. This is a serious risk for Google.
Why is this a big issue?
Japan is one of the top markets for Google Pixel phones. In fact, Google became the second biggest smartphone brand in Japan for a short time. A ban on Pixel phones could hurt Google’s sales and brand image badly.
Google has a few options:
- They can appeal the court decision.
- They can try to make a deal with Pantech and pay for using the patent.
- They can change the design in future phones to avoid using the disputed technology.
The ban on the Google Pixel 7 series in Japan is a major blow to the company. It happened because of a 4G patent issue with another company. The court said Google acted unfairly and gave the ban order. Now, Pixel 8 and 9 are also at risk. Google will have to act fast and smart to fix this problem and protect its future phones.
Google Pixel 7 Series Banned in Japan.
Each choice is difficult and has some risk. This is more serious because Google Pixel 9 is expected to launch later this year.
