We’ve already noted our slip into Bizarro World, an odd and topsy-turvy land where — due to patent-infringement claims — Microsoft strikes licensing deals with Android device makers. Redmond has used a carrot-and-stick strategy so far, suing competing manufacturers ( Barnes and Noble , Motorola ) while reaching a protective royalty agreement with HTC , which, not coincidentally, also makes Windows Phones. Today, another company joins the licensee list: General Dynamics Itronix, known for its rugged computers , a number of which do run Windows . Neither company offered much within the way of details, except for declaring that Itronix pays royalties, but we’ve no reason to believe it’s too different from HTC’s arrangement. See the clicking release after the break for a superb example of terse, unrevealing business-speak.
Agreement will cover General Dynamics Itronix devices running the Android platform.
REDMOND, Wash., June 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Microsoft Corp. and General Dynamics Itronix have signed a patent agreement that offers broad coverage under Microsoft’s patent portfolio for General Dynamics Itronix devices running the Android platform. Although the contents of the agreement haven’t been disclosed, the parties indicate that Microsoft will receive royalties from General Dynamics Itronix under the agreement.
“We’re pleased to have reached this agreement with General Dynamics Itronix, that’s an example of ways industry leaders address intellectual property,” said Horacio Gutierrez, corporate vp and deputy general counsel of Intellectual Property and Licensing at Microsoft.
Mark Johnston, director of Strategic Computing Solutions for General Dynamics Itronix, said, “The completion of this agreement enables Itronix to fulfill the evolving demands of our customers with more diverse applications and increased functionality in products that incorporate the Android platform.”
Microsoft’s Commitment to Licensing Intellectual Property
The patent agreement is another example of the real role intellectual property (IP) plays in ensuring a healthy and colourful IT ecosystem. Since Microsoft launched its IP licensing program in December 2003, the corporate has entered into greater than 700 licensing agreements and continues to develop programs that make sure that customers, partners and competitors to access its IP portfolio. This system was developed to open access to Microsoft’s significant R&D investments and its growing, broad patent and IP portfolio.
Additional info about Microsoft’s licensing programs is out there at http://www.microsoft.com/iplicensing.
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) is the global leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
SOURCE Microsoft Corp.
Lumus’ OE-31 optical engine turns motorcycle helmets, other eyewear into wearable displays
OMAP 5′s dual A15 cores wipe the ground with four A9s in browsing benchmark
