PATENTSGoogle must pay SimpleAirGoogle was ordered Thursday by a jury in Texas to pay $85 million to SimpleAir Inc. for using the closely held company's technology for transmitting Internet-based data to computers and mobile devices without a license. The case focused on Google Cloud Messaging and Cloud to Device Messaging, which process and send notification messages to smartphones and tablet computers that run on Google's Android operating system, the most popular platform for mobile devices. UNEMPLOYMENTJobless claims hold steadyThe number of Americans filing applications for unemployment benefits held last week near the lowest level in almost four months, a sign the labor market continues to strengthen. Federal Reserve policymakers said Wednesday in a statement there is "sufficient underlying strength in the broader economy to support ongoing improvement in labor-market conditions," even as economic activity slowed during the winter months. REAL ESTATESales drop for existing homesSales of existing homes slipped in February to their lowest level since July 2012 as severe winter weather, rising prices and a tight supply of homes discouraged buyers. "Once we get past this messy period, housing should assume its role in supporting overall growth," Jennifer Lee, an economist at BMO Capital Markets, said in a note to clients.
Reported by SFGate 30 minutes ago.
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