A while ago, we brought word that LG had won an injunction against Sony, blocking any new PlayStation 3 systems from entering Europe. Now we’ve heard that “tens of thousands” of PS3s being seized by officials in the Netherlands (where new hardware enters Europe), according to European press.
The Korean firm alleges that the PS3 infringes on its Blu-ray technology, and demands that Sony buys a license before selling any more consoles.
Sony’s scheduled to appeal to the Hague today, but if it fails, it could be subject to even more injunctions. If the case is lost overall, the PS3 platform holder may have to pay royalties for every single PlayStation 3 sold to date.
With the Dutch courts already giving LG everything it wants, it looks like Sony’s in some very hot water. In any case, expect PS3 supplies to be short in Europe for a while.
‘Tens of thousands’ of PS3s seized in new LG court order [GI.biz]
Published: Mar 10, 2011 09:00 am