Apple has found itself being sued once again in China. Getting them in trouble this time round is Siri, the personal assistant app that (attempts to) answer questions and make recommendations according to the user’s preferences. Siri has been a key focus of Apple’s research and product development over the past few years.

According to sources, in 2004 Shanghai Zhizhen Network Technology applied to patent a chat tool, and recently discovered that the Siri voice app infringed on their patent that was approved in 2006. Zhizhen’s tool, named “Xiaoi” is an instant messaging bot system which also provides users answers and recommendations according to the user’s preferences.

The patent in question also currently covers the MSN messenger bot used on Weibo, the World Expo Haibao bot, as well as various customer service bots associated with China Mobile.

Zhizhen originally filed a lawsuit shortly after Apple released their iPhone 4S in China, but it didn’t come to light until recently due to overcoming diplomatic difficulties with Apple HQ in America. The case was opened in Shanghai on March 27, with the court declining Apple its request to suspend the case.

See also: Attempt to Sue Baidu Violating Free Speech Dismissed by US Court

What to Expect from Your Employment Contract in China? Sign up a free account and receive the free career advice from other expats. Sign up with Google Already have an account? Sign in

To continue reading the full article, please sign up a free account Sign up with Google Already have an account? Sign in

Warning：The use of any news and articles published on eChinacities.com without written permission from eChinacities.com constitutes copyright infringement, and legal action can be taken.

Keywords: Apple sued by Shanghai Zhizhen Apple sued in China