Microsoft and Canon strike patent-sharing deal
Microsoft and Canon signed a cross-licensing agreement on Wednesday (July 2) that allows them each to take out licences to the other’s patent portfolios.
The agreement covers a “broad range of products and services”, which include digital imaging and mobile consumer products. Further contents of the agreement were not disclosed.
It isn’t the first time Microsoft and Canon have worked together—in the past they’ve collaborated on the development of colour technology.
“Microsoft believes cooperative licensing is an effective way to accelerate innovation while reducing patent disputes,” said Nick Psyhogeos, associate general counsel of IP licensing in Microsoft’s innovation and intellectual property group.
“This collaborative approach with Canon allows us to deliver inventive technologies that benefit consumers around the world,” he added.
Hideki Sanatake, senior general manager of corporate intellectual property and legal headquarters of Canon, said the agreement is “natural extension” of the company’s longstanding relationship with Microsoft.
Microsoft has signed more than 1,100 licensing agreements since it launched its IP licensing programme in 2003.
Today (July 3), WIPR reported that Microsoft has installed Erich Andersen as its new head of innovation and IP group.
