The case between Oracle and Google has taken an unusual turn.
Despite being given additional time to deliberate over the weekend, the jury hearing the Oracle V Google case has ruled Google has infringed Oracle’s Java copyrights.
However, despite this finding they’re hung up on whether Google’s implementation of Java’s APIs in their Android OS constitutes fair use.
Oracle is alleging Google owes them millions in royalties for use of their licensed Java software in its ubiquitous Android operating system. However, Google claims the parts of Java they used are free and therefore do not require licences.
Google is expected to call for a mistrial come Tuesday and Thursday.
“We appreciate the jury’s efforts, and know that fair use and infringement are two sides of the same coin,” Google said in a published report.
“The core issue is whether the APIs here are copyrightable, and that’s for the court to decide. We expect to prevail on this issue and Oracle’s other claims.”
TechRadar reports the deadlock could hinder Oracle from claiming damages if the case continues as is, even though the court recognises Google’s infringement.