Microsoft has signed a definitive agreement with Samsung to cross-license the patent portfolios of both companies, providing broad coverage for each company’s products.
Microsoft said that under the terms of the agreement, Microsoft will receive royalties for Samsung’s mobile phones and tablets running the Android mobile platform. In addition, the companies agreed to cooperate in the development and marketing of Windows Phone.
The agreements mark new initiatives to promote Windows Phone and share intellectual property.
Microsoft Windows Phone Division president Andy Lees said Microsoft and Samsung see the opportunity for dramatic growth in Windows Phone and the companies are investing to make that a reality.
"Microsoft believes in a model where all our partners can grow and profit based on our platform," said Lees.
Samsung’s mobile communication division executive vice-president of global product strategy Dr. Won-Pyo Hong said through the cross-licensing of our respective patent portfolios, Samsung and Microsoft can continue to bring the latest innovations to the mobile industry.
"We are pleased to build upon our long history of working together to open a new chapter of collaboration beginning with our Windows Phone "Mango" launch this fall," Won-Pyo Hong added.
