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Imitation and the diffusion of innovation

Author

Listed:
  • Debi Prasad Mohapatra
  • Vatsala Shreeti

Abstract

Why would a market leader choose not to patent an innovation? We study Samsung's decision to forgo patent protection for dual SIM technology in the Indian mobile handset market. Using a structural model of demand and supply estimated on quarterly product-level data from the Indian mobile handset industry, we document that rival firms' dual SIM products generated a preference discovery externality. Rival firms' widespread adoption of the dual SIM technology allowed consumers to discover the value of the technology, also benefiting Samsung itself. Counterfactual simulations show that a patent would have suppressed this externality, reducing Samsung's equilibrium profits despite holding monopoly rights. Voluntary non-patenting was therefore privately optimal. Our findings shed light on wider debates about open-sourcing in software and other markets.

Suggested Citation

  • Debi Prasad Mohapatra & Vatsala Shreeti, 2026. "Imitation and the diffusion of innovation," BIS Working Papers 1344, Bank for International Settlements.
    • Handle: RePEc:bis:biswps:1344
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • L13 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Oligopoly and Other Imperfect Markets
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes
    • O34 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Intellectual Property and Intellectual Capital
    • L63 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Manufacturing - - - Microelectronics; Computers; Communications Equipment

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