In a jaw-dropping move on June 27, 2025, the Tokyo District Court ruled that Google’s Pixel 7 and 7 Pro must be pulled from sale, import, display, and transfer across Japan. This marks the first time a global smartphone has been barred due to a standard-essential patent infringement ruling in Japan .
The crux of the issue? A Korean firm, Pantech (via patent monetization specialist IdeaHub), held the patent on a key 4G LTE technology—specifically the transmission of an acknowledgment signal (ACK) between devices and base stations. Google was found to have violated this patent in its Pixel 7 series .
4G Patent Dispute Sparks Sale Ban
This isn’t a minor tweak—it affects a technical but essential part of cellular communication. The court determined Google used this innovation without permission. Judge’s lash? Google showed an “insincere attitude” during litigation, prompting a full sales ban instead of a negotiated settlement .
Impact Brewing for Pixel 8 & 9
The ripple effect could extend beyond the Pixel 7. Pantech and IdeaHub are actively pursuing similar bans for the upcoming Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 lineup . For Google, this poses a major threat to its strongest non‑US market.
Until now, the Pixel brand in Japan had surged, landing in the #2 spot behind iPhone, thanks largely to the success of the Pixel 7 and the budget Pixel 7a . If bans continue, Google’s rise in this key region could grind to a halt.
Google at a Strategic Crossroads
With only the 7 series currently barred, Google must decide its next move: appeal, strike a licensing deal, or redesign its future phones to bypass patent issues. Each choice comes with significant business implications, especially ahead of the Pixel 9 launch .
FAQ
Q1: Why did Japan ban the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro?
Answer:
A Tokyo court found that Google infringed on Pantech’s patent related to LTE “ACK” signal mapping—a cornerstone of 4G connectivity. Google’s alleged lack of “sincere” engagement in the case led to a full sales ban on the devices .
Q2: Are Pixel 8 and 9 models facing the same ban?
Answer:
They’re not banned yet, but Pantech and IdeaHub are seeking to extend the sales injunction to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 series. No court ruling is final yet, but the legal threat is looming .
This ruling highlights a broader trend in tech: dormant patents are increasingly being weaponized, even by companies no longer active in consumer markets. Google’s next steps in licensing or design changes will be crucial to restoring its growth trajectory in Japan.
Source:https://www.indiatoday.in/technology/news/story/google-pixel-phones-banned-in-japan-here-is-why-2746924-2025-06-27
