Microsoft verdict could slash tech patent royalty costs

A decision in one of the many tech patent battles could severely limit the amount companies can charge in royalty fees. It’s a big step towards settling one of the key issues behind the patent wars. The case in question involves Microsoft violating Motorola patents when creating the Xbox and Microsoft smartphones. Since the dispute […]



Google and Microsoft setting patent examples

Google has vowed that any patents it files relating to open source software will only ever be used defensively. Meanwhile Microsoft has unveiled the full details of its entire patent arsenal. The Google promise is formally titled the “Open Patent Non-Assertion Pledge.” It will only apply to specific designated patents, which will all relate to […]

“Child of the ’90s” Presents the New Internet Explorer [Video]

Under the motto “You grew up, so did we”, Microsoft has created an ad for their new edition of Internet Explorer, complete with… SLAP BRACELETS! LISA FRANK! TAMAGOTCHIS! POGS! And maybe it’s because I’m still not okay being 27 – and I’m only a few months away from turning 28 – but I got goosebumps watching […]

Microsoft vs. Google: Major tech patent issue could be clarified

The latest battle between Microsoft and Google could be more than the usual patent punch-up: it might set a precedent on the key issue of “reasonable” licensing terms. As we’ve previously covered, one of the main points of contention in the world of tech patents is “Rand” or “Frand” terms. That’s the widely agreed concept […]