Microsoft and Canon just signed a deal that will allow both
companies to use each other’s’ patents freely. The agreement is said to cover a
broad range of products and services including digital imaging and mobile
consumer products.
Specifics of the agreement haven’t been disclosed yet and
there’s no information on which specific patents will be affected by the deal. However,
the most probable benefit of patent sharing would be in the camera department where
Microsoft can use Canon’s expertise to improve Nokia’s PureView cameras. On the
other hand, Canon can build cameras powered by Windows Phone much like how
Samsung and Nikon are installing Android on their cameras.
This collaborative approach with Canon allows us to deliver inventive technologies that benefit consumers around the world. – Nick Psyhogeos, Microsoft’s IP Licensing of the Innovation and Intellectual Property Group
This isn’t the first time that Microsoft has signed an agreement
with another company regarding intellectual property rights. Back in March, the
Redmond-based company inked a deal with Dell
where it gained access to some of Dell’s patents for use in its Xbox gaming
consoles.
The good news is that the end beneficiary of this deal would
be consumers, as the deal will help improve future products from Canon and
Microsoft.
