Kelley Drye is representing Monec Holding AG (Monec) in its lawsuit against Apple Inc., which produces the iPhone. The lawsuit was filed on March 23, 2009 in the U.S. District Court in Alexandria, Virginia. Monec’s complaint alleges patent infringement on its January 2002 patent No. 6,335,678 titled “Electronic Device, Preferably an Electronic Book.”

Monec’s patent describes a light and easily portable device with a touch-screen sensor LCD-display. Monec was one of the first pioneers to market a portable device for downloading books in Europe.

The Apple iPhone, which weighs 4.7 ounces and has a 3.5-inch widescreen Multi-Touch display, allows users to read a regular book via Amazon.com’s Kindle eBook reader software and another eBook application known as “Classics.” Apple controls distributions of the applications for the iPhone, including the eBook applications, on their App Store.

Monec asserts that the iPhone violates its patent and stated that Apple is well aware of existing patents in this area and licensing requirements. Monec’s complaint claims that the ongoing infringement has caused injury to its property and business. Monec is a Swiss holding company, which makes and sells electronics for use in mobile communications systems.

Kelley Drye Represents Monec in Lawsuit