HTC Blog – HTC news, information, downloads, software & help

Google’s Android operating system is still in the clear as far as the Apple lawsuit is concerned. According to recent reports, the 20 patents that Apple claims HTC has infringed pertain directly to hardware and software features in the HTC devices, not the Android mobile platform.

It is already a common fact that most HTC devices use the Sense user interface (or the TouchFlo 3D) which may be the target of the some of the software infringement cases. Despite this, Google has issued a statement that they support and are behind HTC on the issue.

The show of corporate loyalty is touching, and for many, quite expected. Google and HTC have a pretty long history together. HTC, for its part, has been one of the founding and most active members of the Open Handset Alliance. They have played a key role in the development of the Android OS and have been the manufacturer behind many firsts such as the first Android device and the first Google branded smart phone.

With Apple and Google’s industry rivalry getting stronger with each passing week, Apple’s decision to sue HTC can be considered a very smart maneuver to disable an important cog in the Android chassis.

Regardless of whether HTC wins the lawsuit or not, it is predicted that Apple is simply aiming to slow down the pace of the Android OS’ advancement. With the Nexus One already under its belt, the HTC Desire and Legend coming this year and the upcoming HTC Scorpio seeming poised to match the Apple iPhone 4G; HTC has positioned itself as a key player in Google’s plans. A single well placed lawsuit such as this should help Apple pave the way for their upcoming devices like the iPhone 4G.

Get more info about the Apple-HTC lawsuit at the Telegraph UK.