Apple faces $5.7 billion patent infringement verdict over iPhone and Apple Watch haptics

A federal jury in San Diego awarded Taction Technology more than $5.7 billion in damages Friday after finding Apple infringed claims from two haptics patents related to the iPhone and Apple Watch. The verdict follows a lawsuit Taction filed in 2021 targeting Apple's haptic feedback technology used across its mobile devices.

Apple has announced plans to appeal the decision. The $5.7 billion award represents one of the largest patent infringement verdicts in recent years and could weigh on Apple's near-term earnings depending on the appeal timeline and any potential settlement negotiations.

Haptic feedback—the tactile vibrations users feel when interacting with touchscreens—has become a core feature across Apple's product lineup. The technology is integrated into the iPhone's keyboard, notifications, and user interface, as well as the Apple Watch's notifications and health alerts. Taction's successful claim suggests the jury found Apple's implementation violated specific patent protections held by the smaller technology firm.

The case highlights ongoing intellectual property risks for major tech platforms as smaller patent holders increasingly pursue aggressive litigation strategies.