What is rpx?

RPX (now part of Clarivate Analytics) was a company that specialized in patent assertion entities (PAEs), also known as "patent trolls." They didn't invent technologies themselves; instead, they acquired patents and then licensed or litigated them against other companies.

Here's a breakdown of key information about RPX:

• Business Model: RPX's core business was to acquire patents from non-practicing entities (NPEs) – companies that don't actually use the patents they own but instead seek to monetize them through licensing or lawsuits. By acquiring these patents, RPX aimed to reduce the risk of litigation for its clients, primarily large technology companies. Essentially, they acted as a "patent insurance" provider.

• Client Base: RPX's clients were major corporations, primarily in the tech industry, who paid annual fees for protection from patent infringement lawsuits. This allowed them to focus on their core business without the distraction and expense of defending against numerous patent claims.

• Patent Acquisitions: RPX aggressively acquired patents, often in large portfolios, to prevent those patents from being asserted against its clients. This involved negotiation and sometimes litigation.

• Criticism: While RPX provided a valuable service to its clients, they also faced criticism for potentially contributing to the problem of patent assertion and stifling innovation. Some argued that their actions inflated patent prices and incentivized further NPE activity.

• Acquisition by Clarivate: RPX was acquired by Clarivate Analytics, a global leader in providing insights and analytics to accelerate the pace of innovation. The acquisition integrated RPX's patent intelligence and risk management capabilities into Clarivate's broader offerings. While the RPX brand may not be as prominent, the functions and services it provided continue to exist within Clarivate.

In summary, RPX was a significant player in the patent landscape, attempting to mitigate the risks associated with patent assertion by acquiring patents and acting as a defense mechanism for major corporations. However, their business model also attracted criticism for its role in the complex and often contentious world of patent litigation.