The European Union's record 1 billion fine against Intel could kick-start civil cases against the legally embattled chipmaker not least because the euros head in the direction of the EU's bottom line, not AMD's.
Intel is accused of allegedly offering kickbacks to computer manufacturers, to encourage them to use its chips rather than AMD's and to delay launches of products featuring its rival's technology. The EU said Intel also offered kickbacks to a retailer in exchange for it stocking only Intel-based products.
Intel has already said it will appeal the massive fine, but analysts warned it potentially faces civil suits.
Competition lawyer Alan Davis, of Pinsent Masons, predicted a flood of civil suits. "This will open the floodgates for competitors to sue," he told his firm's tech law website Out-Law.com. "There was a complainant in this case, AMD, and without question they and other competitors will pursue a case for damages."
"The fine goes to the European Commission's coffers, not to the competitors who suffered damage to their businesses because of Intel's anti-competitive practices," he added. "What is likely to happen is that action will be started and a massive settlement will be made."
Gartner analyst Martin Reynolds also noted that AMD doesn't receive anything from the fine. "AMD does not receive any money from the fine, which accrues to the EU tax budget," he said in a statement.
He added that "the decision paves the way for civil cases against Intel, with the main case due to go to trial in Delaware in 2010." Reynolds is referencing AMD's private suit against Intel, which it filed in 2005.
Unsurprisingly, AMD was rather pleased by today's ruling, and seems to believe Intel can't win. Citing previous Korean and Japanese antitrust cases, it said in a statement: "Intel has so far failed to convince any antitrust enforcement agency that its business practices are lawful and pro-consumer."
-
From phone calls to roll calls: 3CX has the answerHow Yellowgrid, a 3CX Platinum distributor, has taken advantage of 3CX Phone System’s customisable nature to create a time-saving solution already embraced by over 100 UK schools
-
What is operational technology – and why is it at risk?Explainer As operational technology becomes more connected, securing it from cyber threats is more urgent than ever
-
US government could take stake in Intel as chip giant's woes continueNews The move would see increased support for Intel’s manufacturing operations
-
Dell says Windows 11 migration is a prime opportunity to overhaul ageing PC fleets – and AI devices are in the spotlightNews The shift to Windows 11 means IT leaders can ditch old tech and get their hands on AI PCs
-
AMD chief exec Lisa Su says its new Helios AI rack is a 'game changer' for enterprises ramping up inference – here's whyNews The integrated hardware offering will feature upcoming AMD chips and networking cards
-
AMD Advancing AI 2025: All the latest news and updates from San JoseFollow all the news and updates live from AMD's latest Advancing AI conference
-
What enterprises need to be Windows 11 readySupported Content Hardware purchasing will play a key role in delivering success during the Windows 11 migration rush
-
The gloves are off at Intel as new CEO plots major strategy shiftNews Intel’s incoming CEO has some big plans for the firm’s business strategy, sources familiar with the matter have told Reuters, with more job cuts looming on the horizon.
-
Why the CPU you chose is the key to Windows 11The end of Windows 10 is on the horizon – it’s time to upgrade to an fTPM-protected processor
-
Intel just won a 15-year legal battle against EUNews Ruled to have engaged in anti-competitive practices back in 2009, Intel has finally succeeded in overturning a record fine
