Microsoft and Coby Electronics Sign Patent Agreement Covering Android and Chrome Based Devices

Agreement provides broad coverage under Microsoft's patent portfolio.

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Jul 09, 2012, 04:00 ET

REDMOND, Wash., July 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft Corp. and Coby Electronics Corporation have signed a patent agreement that provides broad coverage under Microsoft's patent portfolio for Coby's products 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 Coby under the agreement.

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"We are pleased to have reached this agreement with Coby", said Horacio Gutierrez, corporate vice president and deputy general counsel, Intellectual Property Group at Microsoft. "This agreement confirms once again that the best way to resolve IP issues such as those surrounding Android and Chrome is through a reasonable licensing arrangement."

"As an innovator in the consumer electronics industry, Coby likewise respects the intellectual property rights of other innovators like Microsoft," said Vincent Castiglione, General Counsel of Coby Electronics Corporation. "We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Microsoft."

Microsoft's Commitment to Licensing Intellectual Property

The patent agreement is another example of the important role intellectual property 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 1,100 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.

More information about Microsoft's licensing programs is available at http://www.microsoft.com/iplicensing/.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

SOURCE Microsoft Corp.