Microsoft Hardens Global IP Protection for Device Makers
By Indu Britto
Microsoft is broadening its financial and legal IP protection to thousands of device makers and distributors that choose Windows Embedded and Windows Mobile, further distancing itself from open source competitors. The strengthened IP protection will be available in every country where Microsoft sells its products, and will cover costs for worldwide patent, copyright, trademark, trade secret and legal defense.
With over USD 100M in annual revenues, and 64 percent year-over-year product revenue growth (in the recently completed second fiscal quarter), Windows Embedded continues to outpace embedded operating systems competitors. By offering device makers stronger and broader IP protection than open source providers like Wind River, Red Hat or Novell, Microsoft is well poised to dominate the burgeoning embedded market.
Given the average cost of a relatively modest infringement action through trial is reported to be at least USD 500,000 per party, and for suits where more than USD 25 million is at risk the cost escalates to USD 4 million per party*, embedded and mobility device makers and distributors are increasingly counting on vendors like Microsoft to give them a level of assurance they will not be exposed to unnecessary risk. Microsoft stands behind its products – making it a priority to mitigate any issues faced by its partners so they can stay focused on innovation. This announcement represents yet another promise by Windows Embedded and Windows Mobile to eliminate major barriers found in traditional device development, including the worry and cost associated with defending IP integrity.
