Microsoft, LG Reach Patent Agreement

Microsoft said Thursday that it had reached a cross-licensing agreement with South Korean electronics manufacturer LG, which follows a similar construct to a deal with Novell reached last November.

Through the agreement, LG is permitted to use Microsoft's patents in its products, including those used in Linux devices. In turn, Microsoft has access to LG's patents, including those owned by business solutions provider MicroConnect Group.

Financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed, although Microsoft will make a "net balancing payment" to LG for patents for operating and computer systems. Additionally, LG will make ongoing payments as they relate to Linux devices.

"This agreement is another example of how Microsoft is continuing to build bridges with others in the industry through intellectual property licensing," Microsoft's IP chief Horacio Gutierrez said. "We are pleased to be working with an industry leader and partner like LGE to meet our mutual business goals and customer needs."

Microsoft has been quite busy in signing patent licensing agreements in the past year. It has also cross-licensed patents from Fuji Xerox, NEC, Nortel Networks, Samsung, and Seiko Epson.