Nokia claimed 7,000 of its patent families have now been declared as essential for 5G, highlighting advancements in radio protocol design, security and interface technology.

Describing the 7,000 figure as a “milestone”, the Finnish vendor stated its patents include key technologies that define how smartphones and other connected devices interact with 5G networks.

The company explained that all devices connecting to a mobile network use Nokia’s patented technology, and its substantial investment in cellular R&D and standardisation continues to pay-off.

Patrik Hammaren, acting president of Nokia Technologies, said the landmark achievement, along with its pre-standardisation work, puts it in a “leading position for 6G standardisation which begins later this year”.

Nokia added its patent portfolio, composed of more than 20,000 patent families, has been built up from more than €150 billion invested in R&D and standardisation since 2000.

It has a customer portfolio of more than 250 companies which are using its licenses to access its patent technologies.

However, it has not always been smooth sailing. In the past two years, Nokia has struck patent licensing agreements with players including Apple, Samsung, Oppo and Honor, following prolonged legal spats.