KPN tries to crash BT's patent party

NEWS Dutch telco KPN is following BT's lead and is exploring opportunities to exploit its own library of patents. KPN has hired the same patent specialist as BT, QED, to handle the exploitation of around 60 patents involving opto-electrical technology. QED also handles the patents for Deutsche Telekom. The patents include designs on components of advanced optical networks that are only now beginning to see widespread use, the FT reports. QED said it will look to make money for QED by enforcing patents already in use as well as setting up companies to create products based around the designs. BT is currently involved in a landmark legal case in the US in which the telco alleges it owns the patent for hyperlinks, the cement that binds the world wide web together.