QUALCOMM SUES APPLE OVER ROYALTY PAYMENTS

In a federal lawsuit filed Wednesday, Qualcomm claimed that Apple has instructed its contractors to withhold patent-related license fees on iPhone sales, the latest development in an escalating fight between the tech companies over money and patent rights. Apple says Qualcomm is overcharging for these fees and began refusing to pay royalties until the courts determine how much it owes. Qualcomm, which denies it’s overcharging Apple, says Apple is also telling its contractors that it will indemnify them for damages from any lawsuits as they withhold payments. Qualcomm has separate licensing agreements with the contractors.