 |
|||
|
May 4, 2007 |
|||
| Advantage IGT | |||
|
Reno-based International Game Technology recently announced it had been granted a summary judgment in a patent infringement lawsuit against Australia-based Aristocrat Technologies. Aristocrat had alleged that IGT’s Multiway® video slot games, including Aztec Temple® and Carnival of Mystery® video slot games, infringed the on Aristocrat’s patent—US Patent No. 6,093,102. But U.S. District Court Judge Brian E. Sandoval ruled the patent invalid, and entered an order granting IGT’s motion for summary judgment on April 20. “IGT believes strongly in the United States patent system and respects the valid intellectual property rights of others. We are pleased that our position has been vindicated,” said Stephen W. Morro, president of IGT’s gaming division. Aristocrat, in a release, said it still believes the patent is valid, and would appeal the decision. “Aristocrat is disappointed with this decision and looks forward to having this matter promptly heard and resolved in the US patent appeal court, the Federal Circuit,” the company said. “Aristocrat's 243 Ways/Reel Power patents, which are issued and pending in several countries world-wide, protect valuable intellectual property which IGT has and continue to infringe (upon). Aristocrat will continue to protect its intellectual property rights in all of its world-wide markets.” —Andy Holtmann |
|||