Nokia won a round in one of its patent battles with chip maker Qualcomm as a judge with the U.S. International Trade Commission ruled for the mobile telephone maker on Wednesday. The judge found no infringement or violation by Nokia of the three asserted Qualcomm patents. In addition, it was determined that patent '473 was found to be invalid.

"We are pleased with Judge Luckern's decision and believe it is consistent with and supported by the facts," said Rick Simonson, Chief Financial Officer, Nokia. "This decision confirms our belief that Qualcomm does not have relevant GSM patents. This is another failed attempt by Qualcomm to mislead both Nokia and the telecommunications industry."

Qualcomm had accused Nokia of infringing on three patents that help reduce dropped calls for Nokia phone users.

The ITC, which determines whether imports unfairly injure U.S. companies, must now decide if it will uphold Luckern's decision. The agency has said it aims to reach a decision by March 12, 2008.

The two companies have been wrangling over a cross- licensing agreement for technology patents that expired in April 2007.