Primax and Microsoft Settle Patent Infringement Case

REDMOND, Wash. — Dec. 17, 2008 — Microsoft Corp. and Primax Electronics Ltd. today announced that the patent infringement case brought by Microsoft against Primax — in the U.S. District Court in Northern California and before the International Trade Commission (ITC) — has been settled, and that Primax has entered into a non-exclusive licensing agreement covering Microsoft’s patents for U2 and Tilt Wheel technology. The agreement covers both past and future sales of the relevant products in the United States. Terms of the agreement are confidential.

Horacio Gutierrez, vice president and deputy general counsel of Intellectual Property and Licensing, Microsoft Corporation, stated:

“We are very pleased that Primax has chosen to respect Microsoft’s intellectual property and entered into a licensing agreement with Microsoft that puts an end to the pending litigation.

“Microsoft has a very comprehensive and successful IP licensing program, with well over 500 agreements in place since the company opened up its patent portfolio to licensing in December of 2003, and makes every effort to resolve IP disputes through licensing, minimizing the need for litigation. This particular program around our U2 and Tilt Wheel innovations and technologies, now with more than 30 licensees (manufacturers and retail brands) in the mouse and keyboard industry, is an excellent example of how IP collaboration encourages shared industry success by allowing licensees to incorporate innovative technologies, powered by Microsoft IP, into their products to provide enhanced features to their customers.”  

Brian Yang, President Information Appliance Division of Primax Electronics Ltd. stated:

“We are glad to have reached an agreement with Microsoft, and are pleased to be participating in this overall IP licensing program. We look forward to many years of successful collaboration with Microsoft.”

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