Tumblr and Photobucket stung by patent claims

Blogging website Tumblr and image-hosting provider Photobucket have been stung in patent infringement claims brought by Texas-based Rothschild Patent Imaging.

On Friday, October 14, Rothschild filed eight lawsuits in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against a range of companies, including Tumblr and Photobucket.

Rothschild alleged the companies had infringed US patent number 8,437,797, which concerns a “wireless image distribution system and method”.

Tumblr’s app, which allows photos to be shared between users, is alleged to infringe the patent, as is Photobucket’s mobile app.

The apps transmit images to a second image-capturing device (a second party) via a wireless transmitter.

“Defendant’s actions complained of herein are causing irreparable harm and monetary damage to plaintiff and will continue to do so unless and until defendant is enjoined and restrained by this court,” said the suits.

Rothschild is seeking injunctive relief, damages and costs.