Qualcomm claims Apple’s most recent iOS 12.1.2 update hasn’t circumvented its patents

Even though Apple has not officially confirmed that the latest iOS 12.1.2 update does pack in fixes for a pair of Qualcomm software patents that were supposed to remove any infringing functionality, Qualcomm told Reuters yesterday that the Cupertino firm remains in violation of a Chinese court’s orders to stop selling iPhone 6s through iPhone X in the country.

The news gathering organization previously reported that an iOS update would circumvent two patents that Qualcomm leveled against Apple in China. These software-focused patents cover resizing and reformatting photos for wallpaper and switching between apps.

Here’s what Apple wrote in the iOS 12.1.2 changelog:

iOS 12.1.2 includes bug fixes for your iPhone. This update:

  • Fixes bugs with eSIM activation for iPhone XR, iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max
  • Addresses an issue that could affect cellular connectivity in Turkey for iPhone XR, iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max

Don Rosenberg, Qualcomm’s general counsel, said in a statement to Reuters:

Despite Apple’s efforts to downplay the significance of the order and its claims of various ways it will address the infringement, Apple apparently continues to flout the legal system by violating the injunctions. Apple’s statements following the issuance of the preliminary injunction have been deliberate attempts to obfuscate and misdirect.They are legally obligated to immediately cease sales, offers for sale and importation of the devices identified in the orders and to prove compliance in court.

Apple believes the court’s orders apply only to iPhone models running older iOS versions.

Naturally, Qualcomm has taken a stance that Apple is still in violation of the court’s orders because the aforementioned models that allegedly infringe its patents continue to be sold in the country. Apple claims the ban, if upheld, would cost it millions of dollars a day and affect both the Chinese government and consumers.