Qualcomm’s new Arm contract trial began in Delaware

A separate contract trial that Qualcomm brought against Arm began in Delaware on October 5, 2026. The proceedings were reported as ongoing on October 6.

What Qualcomm alleges and Arm disputes

Qualcomm alleges that Arm withheld chip-testing tools and disclosed to the press a 2024 threat to terminate its license. Qualcomm says the conduct harmed business negotiations. Arm denies breaching the contract and disputes Qualcomm’s claimed damages, including alleged harm tied to a potential deal with Meta, which Arm reportedly characterizes as speculative.

The royalty relief Qualcomm seeks

Qualcomm is asking for royalty payments to Arm to be suspended for five years. Royalties are payments tied to licensing technology; the requested suspension is part of Qualcomm’s case.

The proceedings include a jury trial on a reported five-day schedule and a related proceeding before U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika. The judge’s proceeding concerns whether Arm negotiated in good faith over future chip technology.

How the case differs from the Nuvia dispute

The current contract case is separate from Arm’s earlier lawsuit concerning Nuvia’s license and Qualcomm’s use of designs acquired from Nuvia. In December 2024, the jury in that case deadlocked on whether Nuvia had breached its agreement. On October 1, 2025, Qualcomm announced that the Delaware court had entered final judgment for Qualcomm and Nuvia on Arm’s remaining claim.