US jury says Apple owes record $5.7 billion in iPhone, Apple Watch haptic technology patent case

September 26, 2026 - 19:19

A federal jury in the United States has ruled against Apple in a patent dispute involving the haptic feedback system used in its popular mobile devices. The jury determined that the Taptic Engine, a component found in iPhones and Apple Watches, infringes on two patents held by Taction, a company based in San Diego. As a result, Apple has been ordered to pay more than $5.7 billion in damages, a figure that stands out as one of the largest patent verdicts in recent memory.

The case centers on technology that creates subtle vibrations and tactile responses when users interact with their devices. Taction argued that Apple incorporated its patented designs without permission, using them to enhance the user experience across multiple product lines. The jury agreed, finding that the infringement was significant enough to warrant the massive award.

Apple has not yet commented publicly on the verdict, but the company is expected to challenge the decision. Legal experts note that patent cases of this scale often go through appeals, and the final amount could be reduced or overturned. Still, the ruling marks a major development in the ongoing battle over intellectual property in consumer electronics. For now, the decision adds another chapter to the complex relationship between tech giants and smaller patent holders.