Microsoft has entered into a patent agreement with tablet maker Velocity Micro that provides broad coverage under Microsoft’s patent portfolio for Velocity Micro Android-based devices, including Velocity Micro’s Cruz Tablet.
The details of the deal have not been disclosed, though the firms indicated that Velocity Micro will pay royalties to Microsoft for technology used in Android devices.
This marks the second similar patent deal in this week that Microsoft has inked with a manufacturer over patents related to Android-based products.
Microsoft recently signed a similar patent agreement with General Dynamics Itronix devices running the Android platform.
CEO of Velocity Micro, Randy Copeland said: "By entering into this agreement with Microsoft, Velocity Micro, will be able to better meet the needs of our customers with the introduction of exciting new Cruz tablets having increased performance and functionality."
Microsoft has signed a similar patent deal with mobile device maker HTC in April 2010 where the latter agreed to pay royalties for the use of patented technology in its Android-powered devices.
Microsoft has signed more than 700 licensing agreements and continues to develop programmes that help increase access to its IP portfolio since the launch of its IP licensing programme in December 2003.
Microsoft claims that the patent agreement is "another example" of its intellectual property (IP) portfolio.
