CIOTech Outlook Team | Friday, 06 June 2025, 10:58 IST
Smartphone manufacturer OPPO has entered into a landmark global patent licensing agreement with Volkswagen, granting the automotive giant access to OPPO’s portfolio of cellular standard-essential patents (SEPs), including 5G technologies. Because of this agreement, Volkswagen can add OPPO’s advanced cellular functions to its connected vehicles, making its products better for users all over the world.
“We are delighted to collaborate with Volkswagen through this patent licensing agreement,” said Vincent Lin, Head of Patent Licensing at OPPO. “Volkswagen IP team’s hard work and foresight in recognizing the value of this cooperation are highly appreciated.” He further emphasized, “This partnership is further recognition of OPPO’s leadership in cellular technology innovation and our commitment to creating a long-term, healthy and sustainable intellectual property ecosystem that empowers long-term innovation and industry growth.”
For the first time, OPPO has entered into a bilateral deal with a connected-car company to license its cellular SEPs, pointing to greater use of its technology outside the smartphone industry. According to LexisNexis IPlytics, a leading patent analytics platform, OPPO ranks eighth globally in 5G patent strength as of January 2025. The company’s 5G SEPs are currently utilized in over 40 countries and regions worldwide.
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Robin Cefai, Chief IP Licensing Officer at Volkswagen, commented, “The partnership with OPPO is an example of efficient, respectful, business-focused collaboration in the space of licensing of Standard Essential Patents.” He added, “It illustrates Volkswagen’s willingness to recognize the value of IP and find sustainable solutions for all parties.”
OPPO’s commitment to innovation is shown by its large number of patents. In March 2025, the organization had made more than 113,000 applications for patents and obtained more than 62,000 granted patents worldwide. The company keeps increasing its efforts in 5G/6G, artificial intelligence, charging, imaging, and video technology, which has strengthened its global leading status.
This agreement underscores the increasing convergence of automotive and cellular technologies, paving the way for enhanced connectivity and innovation in Volkswagen’s connected vehicles.