NCTA was among 50 organizations that recently sent a letter to Congressional leadership urging solutions to patent abuse. “Managing frivolous patent suits unfortunately has become an expensive distraction for a large cross section of American businesses,” the letter said, citing the growth of patent troll activity in recent years.

"We seek reforms to the current system that would significantly curb trolls’ [formally ‘patent assertion entities’] ability to extort settlement demands from retailers, technology companies, small businesses, financial services institutions, state and local government entities, and many others who are today the targets of their outrageous claims," the letter said. Citing a recent White House report, the letter said patent troll activity has quadrupled since 2005, costing the economy $80 billion in 2011 alone.

Part of cable’s growth relies on its ability to create and deploy the latest technology to deliver broadband services, and to engage viewers with high-value content, making it easily accessible on consumer phones, tablets and other mobile devices, NCTA said in a blog post. “That’s why we’re working so hard to return the patent system to its intended purpose. We’re pleased to have such widespread support both from our peers in the technology and communications industry and with the Obama administration.”

The Daily

Subscribe
Tuesday–June 6

DirecTV Flies with Southwest

DirecTV is partnering with Southwest Airlines to provide in-flight live TV and on-demand content. It’ll start with 14 live channels like CNN, FOX, ESPN and others, but all DirecTV customers who purchase the $8 Southwest internet package can log into the DirecTV app and access all of their channels.

Read the Full Issue
The Skinny is delivered on Tuesday and focuses on the cable profession. You'll stay in the know on the headlines, topics and special issues you value most. Sign Up

Calendar

Aug 18
Most Powerful Women – 2023Deadline: Aug. 11; Final Deadline: Aug. 18
Full Calendar

Jobs

Seeking an INDUSTRY JOB?
VIEW JOBS

Hiring? In conjunction with our sister brand, Cynopsis, we are offering hiring managers a deep pool of media-savvy, skilled candidates at a range of experience levels and sectors, The result will be an even more robust industry job board, to help both employers and job seekers.

Contact [email protected] for more information.