OnePlus resumes operations in Germany following global 5G patent agreement
Chinese smartphone maker OnePlus has made a triumphant return to the German market for the first time in about 18 months. This exciting development follows the recently concluded global 5G patent cross-licensing agreement between OnePlus’ sister company Oppo and Finnish telecommunications giant Nokia. The agreement effectively ends a long-running legal dispute that spanned 12 countries.
Previously, OnePlus had withdrawn from the German market in August 2022 following a patent infringement lawsuit that Oppo lost to Nokia. The ruling by the German district court in Mannheim affected not only Oppo but also the sales of OnePlus smartphones in the country. However, this recent event has allowed OnePlus to re-establish its presence in one of the world’s major economies.
OnePlus’ return to Germany is not only significant for the company, but also reflects a positive sign of recovery in the global smartphone market. According to technology research firm IDC, the industry is expected to grow 3.8% this year. Despite the challenges faced by the entire smartphone sector, the adoption of 5G technology remains a key driver of growth. IDC predicts that the world’s 5G smartphone shipments this year will increase by 11% to 20% in 2023.
OnePlus’ resurgence in Germany is closely tied to the resolution of a long-standing legal dispute between Oppo and Nokia. The Global 5G Patent Cross-Licensing Agreement covers essential patents for 5G and other cellular communications technologies. Under the agreement, Oppo will pay royalties to Nokia based on agreed rates and settlement arrangements, effectively ending patent litigation across all jurisdictions. Terms and conditions are confidential.
Founded in 2013 by a group of Oppo employees, including current CEO Pete Lau, OnePlus has a competitive advantage compared to Apple’s iPhone and Samsung Electronics’ equivalent Android devices. It has gained popularity in the Western market by offering high-end smartphones at affordable prices. The resumption of smartphone sales in Germany clearly demonstrates OnePlus’ commitment to expanding its global footprint.
While OnePlus celebrates its return to the German market, Oppo still faces ongoing legal challenges in the country. In late December, a court in Munich ruled that Oppo had infringed a patent from US wireless and mobile technology company InterDigital, resulting in an injunction against Oppo. Due to intense competition from other major Android device vendors, Oppo is under pressure to quickly resolve these patent disputes.
OnePlus’ re-entry into the German market marks an important turning point for the company. With the smartphone industry showing signs of recovery, OnePlus aims to take advantage of the growing adoption of 5G technology. With the resolution of legal disputes and re-establishment of its presence in key markets, OnePlus is poised for renewed success in the competitive global smartphone environment.
