Microsoft has signed a patent deal with Quanta Computer, the latest in an ongoing effort to convince hardware makers that they need to license technology from the software giant if they intend to use Google’s Android and Chrome operating systems for their devices and the companies didn’t disclose terms of the deal, except to say that Microsoft will receive royalties from Quanta under the agreement. The Quanta name may not ring many bells, but they’re the one of the largest contract PC manufacturers in the world and if Microsoft’s deal allowed them to collect royalties on any Android or Chrome-powered product sold under the Quanta name. The licensing deals Microsoft has inked in the past don’t shine any light on the royalty structure and Google historically hasn’t been a fan of Microsoft’s practices………………
Microsoft Corp. and Quanta Computer Inc. have signed a patent agreement that provides broad coverage under Microsoft’s patent portfolio for Quanta’s tablets, smartphones and other consumer devices running the Android or Chrome Platform. Although the contents of the agreement have not been disclosed, the parties indicate that Microsoft will receive royalties from Quanta under the agreement. “We are pleased to have reached this agreement with Quanta, and proud of the continued success of our Android licensing program in resolving IP issues surrounding Android and Chrome devices in the marketplace,” said Horacio Gutierrez, corporate vice president and deputy general counsel, Intellectual Property Group at Microsoft. The patent agreement is another example of the important role IP plays in ensuring a healthy and vibrant IT ecosystem. Since Microsoft launched its IP licensing program in December 2003, the company has entered into more than 700 licensing agreements and continues to develop programs that make it possible for customers, partners and competitors to access its IP portfolio. The program was developed to open access to Microsoft‘s significant R&D investments and its growing, broad patent and IP portfolio.
[ttjad keyword=”general”]
