Microsoft signs IP licensing agreement with Motorola

Mumbai: A patent licensing agreement was signed between Microsoft Corporation and Motorola Solutions, Inc. The license will provide worldwide coverage under Microsoft’s patent portfolio for Motorola Solutions’ devices running the Android platform and Chrome OS operating system.

“Microsoft and Motorola Solutions share a respect for intellectual property and a commitment to fair and reasonable patent licensing programs,” said Nick Psyhogeos, General Manager, Associate General Counsel, IP licensing of the Innovation and Intellectual Property Group at Microsoft.

The patent agreement is another example of the important role intellectual property (IP) plays in ensuring a healthy and vibrant technology ecosystem. Since Microsoft launched its IP licensing program in December 2003, the company has entered into more than 1,100 licensing agreements and continues to develop programs that open Microsoft’s IP portfolio for customers, partners and competitors. The program was developed to provide access to Microsoft’s significant R&D investments and its growing, broad patent and IP portfolio.

“Our Motorola Solutions communications technology works best for everyone when it is backed with robust intellectual property and patents,” said Joe White, Vice President of Enterprise Mobile Computing, Motorola Solutions.

Microsoft’s specific patent licensing program for Android device-makers has resulted in signed license agreements with numerous companies, including Samsung, ZTE, LG, HTC, Acer and Barnes & Noble. “Microsoft prefers licensing to litigation, since licensing is a more effective way to share technology and accelerate the pace of innovation,” concluded Nick Psyhogeos.