REDMOND, Wash. (Legal Newsline) -- Microsoft Corp. and Voxx Electronics Corp. have signed a worldwide patent licensing agreement.
In a joint statement Thursday, the companies said the agreement provides Voxx -- formerly Audiovox Electronics Corp. -- with "broad coverage" under Microsoft's patent portfolio for devices running the Android OS, including rear-seat entertainment devices and tablets.
"Microsoft and Voxx Electronics have a history of collaboration, and this agreement further demonstrates the value both companies place on responsible intellectual property licensing," said Nick Psyhogeos, associate general counsel, IP licensing of the Innovation and Intellectual Property Group at Microsoft.
"Licensing agreements are an effective way to share technology and accelerate innovation."
Such agreements also help avoid costly litigation.
"Our customers depend on Voxx Electronics to deliver cutting-edge mobile and consumer electronics, and the licensing deal with Microsoft enables us to better deliver those technologies in mobile devices and the 'connected cars' of today and tomorrow," said Tom Malone, president of Voxx.
While the contents of the deal are confidential, the companies said Microsoft will receive royalties from Voxx under the agreement.
Since Microsoft launched its IP licensing program in December 2003, the company has entered into more than 1,100 licensing agreements.
The program was developed to provide access to Microsoft's research and development investments and its patent and IP portfolio.
The company's specific patent licensing program for Android device-makers has resulted in signed agreements with Samsung, LG, HTC, Acer and Barnes & Noble, among others.
From Legal Newsline: Reach Jessica Karmasek by email at patents@legalnewsline.com.
Microsoft, Voxx sign patent agreement for Android devices
