Comcast ordered to pay $213 million in patent infringement verdict

A federal jury in Florida has ordered Comcast to pay $213 million in damages to Wherever TV following a patent infringement trial. The dispute centers on technology used in Comcast’s X1 platform, which powers Xfinity video set-top boxes and Flex streaming devices.

The patent in question involves an interactive electronic program guide that allows users to access traditional linear TV channels alongside streaming services, such as free, ad-supported streaming TV (FAST), within a single interface. Wherever TV founder Mark Cavicchia is credited as the inventor of the technology.

The legal battle has spanned several years, originating from a 2018 complaint. While a federal judge initially ruled in Comcast’s favor in 2023 due to insufficient evidence, that decision was overturned on appeal after a court found issues with the original interpretation of the patent. Comcast’s subsequent request for a U.S. Supreme Court review was denied in February, leading to this jury trial.

Representatives for Wherever TV stated the verdict validates the company’s innovation. Comcast has disputed the findings, asserting that the damages are unsupported by law and facts, and maintains that its X1 guide does not infringe upon the patent.