Driving connectivity forward: Nokia signs Wi-Fi patent license agreements with Stellantis and Mercedes-Benz
Today we are pleased to announce that Nokia has signed a royalty bearing patent license agreement with Stellantis, the manufacturer of several iconic car brands including Fiat, Peugeot, Jeep, Alfa Romeo, and more covering the use of our Wireless LAN technologies in Stellantis’ vehicles.
This follows a recent agreement with Mercedes-Benz, also covering the use of our WLAN technologies in their vehicles. These agreements underline the strength of Nokia’s IP assets and our continued leadership in creating foundational technologies that enable vehicle connectivity.
For decades, Nokia has been at the forefront of wireless innovation, investing over €150 billion in cutting-edge R&D since 2000. Our substantial portfolio of patents essential to the IEEE 802.11 WLAN standard, alongside our industry-leading cellular standard essential patents (SEPs), underpins the advanced features that define modern driving. In addition to our own research and Wi-Fi standardization, we have also acquired a number of Wi-Fi 7 related patents from Huawei, further enhancing our assets.
WLAN powers the connected car experience
WLAN technology is a key enabler of the connected car experience, delivering value to both consumers and automakers. For drivers and passengers, it supports high-speed in-car Wi-Fi, seamless streaming and app updates, and wireless map or software downloads. For automakers, WLAN supports the delivery of over-the-air updates, subscription-based infotainment services, and data uploads that enable predictive maintenance and other analytics. In doing so, it enhances convenience for users while helping car makers unlock new revenue streams and operational efficiencies.
Momentum in automotive WLAN licensing
The agreements with Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis are our third and fourth major automotive WLAN licenses this year, and in total we now have WLAN agreements with eight major automotive makers. The growing number of agreements underscores the industry's recognition of the value and necessity of Nokia's patented innovations.
Looking ahead, we are continuing our efforts to ensure a sustainable innovation ecosystem for the automotive industry. Amicable agreements – like our new agreements with Stellantis and Mercedes-Benz – are always our preferred outcome.
Shaping the future of mobility
Nokia remains dedicated to developing new advanced connectivity technologies that will continue to power the future of mobility, from automated driving to telematics and beyond. I want to thank the teams at Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis for their professionalism and collaborative approach in reaching these agreements, and we look forward to further progress in making connected driving safer, smarter, and more enjoyable for everyone.
