Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) and Nikon Corp. (7731.TO) have signed a
patent licensing agreement that covers certain Nikon cameras
running Google Inc.'s (GOOG) Android operating platform.
Microsoft will receive royalties from Nikon, but further details
of the agreement were not disclosed
"Microsoft and Nikon have a long history of collaboration, and
this agreement further demonstrates the value that both companies
place on responsible IP licensing," said Microsoft's general
manager of intellectual property David Kaefer.
The deal is the latest in a string of licensing agreement
Microsoft has struck with makers of Android devices, including
South Korea's Samsung Electronics Co. (SSNHY, 005930.SE) and
Taiwan's HTC Corp. (HTCXF, 2498.TW). Microsoft has sued hardware
companies that haven't licensed its patents because the Android
operating system uses communication standards for displaying icons
and synchronizing content among devices that are part of the
software giant's technology portfolio.
Last month, Microsoft reported its fiscal second-quarter
earnings slipped 3.7% as the software company reported weaker sales
in its business and entertainment divisions, though revenue in its
core Windows business strengthened.
Microsoft shares were up by four cents to $27.53 after hours.
The stock is up 2% over the past three months.
-Write to Nathalie Tadena at nathalie.tadena@dowjones.com
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