Toshiba and Microsoft to Cross-License Patents
May 16, 2005
Tokyo, JP - The New York Times reported that Toshiba and Microsoft agreed to cross-license their patents on computer software and digital consumer electronics.
The agreement could result in faster development and more computer-like features in DVD recorders, TV displays and other electronics. No announcement was made on what specific products that would be affected.
The Times report quoted a Microsoft spokesperson as stating that the cross-licensing deal was the first for Microsoft with a major Japanese electronics maker. According to the report, Microsoft has signed similar licensing deals with other global technology companies, including Siemens.
Last December Samsung and Sony inked a similar agreement to cross-license patents covering consumer electronics products.
Toshiba reportedly has several patents for flat-panel displays and DVD recorders. The report quoted Toshiba spokesperson Midori Suzuki stating that the deal with Microsoft will include patents computer and imaging technologies. Details of the agreement were not disclosed. Over a year ago, Microsoft announced its plan to license more of its intellectual property to other companies, including electronics manufacturers.
The Times report stated that Japanese electronics giants have filed a spate of patent infringement suits in the last two years to protect valuable technologies for flat-panel televisions and other digital gadgets.
For more information go to:
Toshiba-Microsoft
# # #
For a listing of all the Industry News Stories...
Click Here
|
