Microsoft and Voxx Electronics sign patent...

REDMOND, Wash. — Feb. 13, 2014 — Microsoft Corp. and Voxx Electronics Corp. (formerly Audiovox Electronics Corp.) announced on Thursday a worldwide patent licensing agreement providing Voxx Electronics with broad coverage under Microsoft’s patent portfolio for devices running the Android OS, including rear-seat entertainment devices, tablets and other consumer devices. While the contents of the agreement are confidential, the parties indicate that Microsoft will receive royalties from Voxx Electronics under the agreement.

“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.”

“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 Electronics.

Microsoft’s commitment to licensing intellectual property

The patent agreement is another example of the important role intellectual property (IP) plays in ensuring a healthy and vibrant technology ecosystem. Since Microsoft launched its IP licensing program in December 2003, the company has entered into more than 1,100 licensing agreements and continues to develop programs that open Microsoft’s IP portfolio for customers, partners and competitors. The program was developed to provide access to Microsoft’s significant R&D investments and its growing, broad patent and IP portfolio. Microsoft’s specific patent licensing program for Android device-makers has resulted in signed license agreements with numerous companies including Samsung, LG, HTC, Acer and Barnes & Noble.

More information about Microsoft’s licensing programs is available at http://www.microsoft.com/iplicensing.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

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