Earlier today, Microsoft announced a partnership with Samsung to cross-license the patent protfolios of both companies. In other words, Samsung will pay Microsoft royalties for selling Android-based mobile phones and tablets. Samsung was yet another major manufacturer that fell victim to Microsoft’s Android patent tactics and now Google has some harsh words to say.
“This is the same tactic we’ve seen time and again from Microsoft. Failing to succeed in the smartphone market, they are resorting to legal measures to extort profit from others’ achievements and hinder the pace of innovation. We remain focused on building new technology and supporting Android partners,” Google stated. Yup, Google pretty much accused Microsoft of extortion.
Microsoft’s head of communications, Frank Shaw, just recently responded via twitter to these claims and had this to say: “let me boil down the Google statment they gave to @parislemon, from 48 words to 1: Waaaah.”
On top of that, Shaw reminded everyone to read the following:
“We recognize that some businesses and commentators – Google chief among them – have complained about the potential impact of patents on Android and software innovation. To them, we say this: look at today’s announcement. If industry leaders such as Samsung and HTC can enter into these agreements, doesn’t this provide a clear path forward?”
How do you guys feel about these remarks? Has Microsoft gone too far? Does Microsoft really believe they are going to get rid of Android?
