Amazon secures licence to use LG’s Wi-Fi patents in devices

Amazon has secured a licence to use LG's Wi-Fi Standard Essential Patents (SEPs) in its portfolio of devices. The agreement covers core LG patents for Wi-Fi technology, and will apply to products such as the Echo, Fire TV Stick, and Fire Tablet lines.

Patent coverage

Under the terms of the licence, Amazon is authorised to utilise LG's SEPs for Wi-Fi in its products. Standard essential patents are those considered fundamental to the implementation of technology standards, meaning any device compliant with those standards must use that patented technology.

The deal grants Amazon access to patents that have become a basic requirement for the industry, especially as Wi-Fi connectivity becomes a default feature in smart speakers, streaming devices, and tablets. The financial terms of the agreement have not been disclosed.

Industry context

LG reports holding nearly 98,000 registered patents around the world, with around half of these linked to standard technologies. The company's patent portfolio covers various technical domains, including Wi-Fi, mobile communications, broadcasting, and codecs.

The arrangement with Amazon is one component of LG's wider licensing strategy. The company is currently engaged in discussions with multiple international organisations that deploy Wi-Fi technology in their products. Recognition of a patent as an SEP is typically contingent on its adoption by global standard-setting bodies.

Corporate approach

Since 2022, LG has formalised the licensing of patents and intellectual property as a core part of its business model. The company has stated it intends to increase efforts to monetise its portfolio, particularly through licensing deals with manufacturers integrating standardised technologies.

LG also maintains a significant number of patents in strategic growth areas such as 6G mobile, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and advanced automotive technology.

Expansion plans

Beyond Wi-Fi, LG aims to broaden its influence in emerging technology fields. Efforts are ongoing in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communications, augmented reality navigation, and consumer electronics. The company's vehicle solutions segment has reported industry recognition for its work in augmented reality patents for navigation systems.

LG said it remains committed to reinforcing its global position through both defensive and revenue-generating IP strategies. The company continues to invest in patent development across consumer electronics, automotive technologies, and digital infrastructure.

"This agreement reaffirms LG's global leadership in Wi-Fi standard technologies," said Cho Hwi-jae, head of LG's Intellectual Property Centre. "We will continue to drive innovation worldwide by building on our industry-leading patent competitiveness."