HTC's new complaints are the latest in an ongoing battle with Apple, which has attacked several Android licensees in court. The disputes are an indication of just how competitive the mobile phone market has grown. Apple and Android have the largest market shares in the mobile market in the U.S.

In July, the ITC issued an initial determination that HTC infringed two Apple patents. The ITC has also agreed to investigate a separate complaint against HTC filed by Apple and is investigating an HTC complaint against Apple.

HTC has had a relatively weak patent portfolio compared to its competitors. Having access to the new patents from Google could help it shore up its defenses in its disputes with Apple.

In addition to the HTC lawsuit, Apple has filed suits against Samsung and Motorola. It has instigated the banning of Samsung tablets in Australia and Europe.

The IDG News Service