"half" of what? You yourself said hundreds of billions. You think they're gonna settle for half of something like that? I don't. Plus maybe they still think they have enough to either beat vplm or wear them down financially. Thst IS their MO after all. It was recently said here, when I asked, that apple has not actually paid out much in all of their infringement cases against them (I think there's many). Yes, I get it about the sweep, but that's only 2 for Apple. They are very important, but I have the feeling that apple has plenty more maneuverings to use. I guess we'll find out soon if they're gonna settle. They might, but my guess is no. I've been saying for years that companies like apple & all the other big dogs (and the lesser dogs) would've thoroughly researched these patents long ago, thus they would've known for sure, via their lawyers & scientists, if the patents were all that & if so, same question you asked....why would they not have launched a pre-emptive strike long ago, or one of the other companies would've. It makes sense. They would've put a stop to the INEVITABLE sooner than later since they ALSO knew how the monies due would be climbing exponentially. Of course now there's a seemingly flaw in my theory, the IPR wins, but I cannot help but not be convinced apple will settle or any if the others (unless they lose their nerve). Anyway, soon perhaps, we'll will have "THE REST OF THE STORY".
