Boston Dynamics and Ghost Robotics have reached an agreement to lay their patent litigation to rest, the companies announced this week. While the precise terms of their settlement remain under wraps, the resolution marks the end of a high-profile legal battle that began in 2022.
The conflict started when Boston Dynamics filed a lawsuit accusing Ghost Robotics of infringing on seven patents related to its Spot quadruped robot. The claims targeted Ghost Robotics’ Vision 60 and Sprint 40 models, both four-legged robots drawing similarities to Boston Dynamics’ technologies.
Jason Fiorillo, Boston Dynamics' chief legal officer, expressed contentment with the settlement. "We are pleased to resolve this dispute on mutually advantageous terms," he remarked. Fiorillo suggested that the two companies see value in exploring common interests to advance robotic technology globally.
From Ghost Robotics' perspective, the litigation was noted with contention. The company had initially responded to the lawsuit by alleging that Boston Dynamics was leveraging its substantial resources to stifle competition rather than engage in fair market rivalry. "Ghost Robotics’ success has not gone unnoticed by Boston Dynamics. Rather than compete on a level playing field, the company chose to file an obstructive and baseless lawsuit," stated Ghost Robotics at the lawsuit's inception.
Founded in 1992, Boston Dynamics stands as a pioneer in the field of legged robotics, having introduced the commercial Spot robot to markets in the United States in 2019, followed by international expansions in 2020. Meanwhile, Ghost Robotics, founded in 2015, has focused its efforts exclusively on quadrupeds, quickly emerging as a competitor within this specialized segment.
Both companies now indicate an intent to explore potential collaborative avenues. These include engaging with national and international policymakers to forge a cohesive direction in robotics strategy and working jointly on initiatives aimed at fostering the responsible deployment of robotic and AI technologies.
Gavin Kenneally, Ghost Robotics’ co-founder and CEO, welcomed the settlement as a chance to refocus on innovation. "This resolution allows us to focus on driving innovation in robotics," said Kenneally. He further noted that the agreement reflects a mutual dedication to advancing legged robotics while seeking new opportunities in policy and technology discussions.
As industry leaders, both Boston Dynamics and Ghost Robotics have collectively deployed thousands of robots to public safety, governmental, and commercial sectors across the United States and allied countries. With robust market penetration, they recognize a pressing need for a standardized national robotics policy.
Fiorillo pointed out that while countries like China are heavily investing in robotics and setting high technology goals, the U.S. lacks a comprehensive national robotics strategy. "Without more direct interest and engagement from policymakers, the U.S. risks falling behind," he warned. The companies have identified several critical issues to address, from committing to robotic utilization in government operations to addressing supply chain shortages and establishing ethical robotics standards.
Discussions are set to continue, with representatives from both companies planning to meet in early 2025 to propose further strategic alignments. Both Boston Dynamics and Ghost Robotics remain committed to not only competently expanding their technological frontiers but also advocating for the industry's holistic growth and regulatory coherence.
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