Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) Continues Clash with Motorola, Signs the 15th Android Deal

Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) Continues Clash with Motorola, Signs the 15th Android Deal

Reports reveal that Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) has started licensing its patents to makers of the devices that run Android OS of Google Inc.

On Thursday, Honeywell International Inc. became the 15th company to sign Microsoft’s patent-licensing agreement that covers Android devices. The deal overlaps with the introduction of Honeywell’s Dolphin, which is a digital assistant for data capture, communication for field workers and navigation.

Among the several licensing agreements that Microsoft has struck with Android device makers, this is the latest deal. Microsoft has entered into agreements with Samsung Electronics of South Korea and HTC of Taiwan. The company is also suing hardware companies that have not yet licensed its patents as the Android OS utilizes communication standards for synchronizing content among devices and displaying icons that are parts of its technology assortment.

Google owns Motorola Mobility and makes a wide range of Android gadgets. Motorola Mobility has not yet licensed the company’s patents.

Patents have become significant in the battle of supremacy in the world of mobile computing. Patents have prompted a number of lawsuits in courts globally. Several companies are seeking bans on imports of devices that are using infringed technology. Many others are claiming damages for patents that have been infringed on.

Microsoft intends to end the patent war with Motorola, which was clear through a blog post. The post clearly stated Microsoft’s intention of seeking ‘patent peace’ with Motorola Mobility without taking help of legal methods. The company said in a written statement that Motorola can always enter into negotiations that prevent abusive and spendthrift patent claims.

Recently, some of the Motorola devices, including a few models of Xoom and blur phones were ruled to have violated Microsoft’s ActiveSync patent by the US International Trade Commission. The ruling imposed ban on import of the devices that used the technology, starting from July 18th.

Microsoft and Motorola have been involved in a number of compromises over patents that are exposed to a number of lawsuits.

Shares of MSFT are up 2.30% to $29.86 by late morning session on Friday.