Islamabad, June 28, 2025: In a major legal blow, a Japanese court has officially banned the sale and marketing of Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro smartphones in Japan. The court found Google guilty of violating patent law by using key 4G LTE technology without permission from South Korean tech firm Pantech.
The Tokyo District Court ruled that Google infringed on a standard-essential patent (SEP) related to LTE “acknowledgement signals” (ACK) — vital for smartphone communication. This ruling bans not only the sales but also the import, transfer, advertising, and public exhibition of Pixel 7 series devices.
Google’s Conduct Under Fire
The court criticized Google’s behavior during the case, calling it “insincere.” Reports show the tech giant refused to share Pixel 7 sales data and ignored requests to pay reasonable royalty fees. This lack of cooperation led to the court imposing a harsh and comprehensive ban.
Pantech’s Comeback Strategy
Though Pantech is no longer making phones, it still owns valuable wireless communication patents. It now focuses on patent enforcement through partners like IdeaHub, which helps monetise its dormant IP assets. This case marks one of Pantech’s most significant legal wins, having previously gone after brands like OnePlus and Niantic.
Pixel 8 and 9 Also in Legal Trouble
While the ruling currently impacts only the Pixel 7 series, Pantech has filed new lawsuits targeting the Pixel 8 and Pixel 9. If courts find similar infringement, these devices may also face bans in Japan — a crucial market where Google recently overtook Samsung, becoming the second-largest smartphone brand behind Apple.
Future of Pixel in Japan Uncertain
Japan has become a key market for Google’s Pixel phones, even surpassing the U.S. in shipment volume during early 2023. But this ban may damage consumer trust and derail Google’s momentum. Experts warn that unresolved patent issues could expand to other countries, further threatening the Pixel brand globally.
Specification – Pixel 7
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.3-inch AMOLED, 90Hz |
| Processor | Google Tensor G2 |
| RAM / Storage | 8GB / 128GB |
| Camera Setup | 50MP (wide) + 12MP (ultrawide) |
| Battery | 4355 mAh, Fast Charging |
| SIM Support | Physical + eSIM |
| OS | Android 13 (Upgradable) |
FAQs
Q: Why was the Pixel 7 banned in Japan?
A: Google was found to infringe on a patent related to LTE communication technology owned by Pantech.
Q: Will the Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 also be banned?
A: Legal action has already begun; if successful, they could also be removed from the Japanese market.
Q: What is Pantech’s role in this case?
A: Pantech owns the patent and now focuses on enforcing intellectual property rights through litigation
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