Smartphones connect to mobile networks, laptops join Wi-Fi, and headphones pair via Bluetooth. All of this works because devices follow common technical standards, which typically rely on patented inventions. Anyone who wants to use a standard therefore needs a license for these standard essential patents (SEPs).
Holders of such patents generally commit to granting licenses on fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory terms (FRAND), so that they cannot block access to the standard. What that means in a particular case, however, is often disputed.
Guidelines for out-of-court settlement
This is where the Patent Mediation and Arbitration Centre of the Unified Patent Court (PMAC) comes in. A working group of SEP and FRAND experts has published a discussion paper for future guidelines. They are meant to be non-binding and flexible, and to set out how FRAND disputes can be resolved through mediation, arbitration, or expert determination.
Consultation open until October 26
A public consultation on the paper is currently under way. It is aimed mainly at SEP holders and at companies that use standards in their products and may therefore need a license. Comments can be sent by email to contact-pmac@unifiedpatentcourt.org until October 26, 2026.
→ The discussion paper and further information are available here