BT is suing Google over Android

UK TELECOMS PROVIDER BT is suing Google over the Android operating system, which it has decided infringes some of its intellectual property.

A report at the Guardian says that the firm is claiming that Google owes it billions in damages and has filed its lawsuit in the US. BT says that Google infringed a number of its key patents, which is something we are hearing a lot these days. We have asked BT to confirm that this is the case and for more information about the lawsuit.

BT looks to be joining a long list of firms that have aimed lawsuits at Google, Android, or indeed any company that works in the IT industry and has ever done anything that people have enjoyed using or monetised.

The Guardian reports that the lawsuit was filed in the state of Delaware in the US and covers patents that Google allegedly infringed in Google Maps, Google Music, location-based advertising and things in the Android market.

It is not known whether BT will extend the lawsuit to the UK and repeat its claims here.

Update
BT has confirmed the legal action, adding that it will always strive to protect its assets.

"We have commenced legal proceedings against Google, Inc. by filing a claim with the U.S. District Court of Delaware for patent infringement. The patents in question relate to technologies which underpin location-based services, navigation and guidance information and personalised access to services and content," it said in a statement.

"BT's constant investment in innovation has seen it develop a large portfolio of patents which are valuable corporate assets. This is about protecting BT's investment in its intellectual property rights and innovation. It is a well-considered claim and we believe there is a strong case of infringement." µ