China-based PC-maker Lenovo has bought a portfolio of patents from the Japan-based electronics manufacturer NEC to expand its smartphone business.
The company has acquired patents related 3G and LTE mobile technologies along with patents comprising a range of features and technologies currently used in smartphones.
The acquired portfolio includes over 3,800 patent families filed in various countries across the globe.
Lenovo Intellectual Property vice president Ira Blumberg said a strong patent portfolio is a key element for success in the smartphone business.
"This investment strengthens Lenovo’s existing intellectual property portfolio," Blumberg added.
"As Lenovo expands its mobile PC Plus business into new markets, this investment shows it is committed to having the IP we need for global success."
Additionally, Lenovo is planning to acquire more intellectual property assets both through its own innovation and engineering, as well as from external sources in order to support its rapidly expanding PC Plus business.
Lenovo’s PC Plus business portfolio includes mobile devices including smartphones and tablets.
Earlier in March, Lenovo had acquired 21 patent portfolios from Unwired Planet in a $100m deal. The acquired portfolio comprises patents for 3G and LTE mobile technologies and other major mobility patents.
In January, Lenovo had agreed to acquire Google’s struggling US-based Motorola Mobility’s smartphone business for $2.91bn.
