Microsoft today made new progress in its Android patent campaign, announcing a licensing deal with General Dynamics Itronix, maker of rugged tablets and handheld devices used by the military.
The company says the agreement covers devices using Android, Google’s mobile OS. In addition, Microsoft says it “will receive royalties from General Dynamics Itronix under the agreement.” The companies aren’t going further to disclose the specific financial terms of the deal.
The official announcement also contains a none-too-subtle message for the other Android device makers that Microsoft is negotiating with and/or taking to court over the issue. In the news release, Microsoft intellectual property executive and lawyer Horacio Gutierrez calls the deal “an example of how industry leaders address intellectual property.”
Microsoft has separately filed suit against Barnes & Noble and the makers of the Nook over their use of Android in the e-reader. Last year, Microsoft announced an Android patent licensing deal with mobile phone maker HTC, and one analyst estimates Microsoft is receiving $5 for every HTC Android device.
Microsoft has not directly targeted Google with allegations that Android infringes on its patents.
General Dynamics Itronix is part of General Dynamics C4 Systems, which is a unit of General Dynamics. Its computers and devices are used in military situations and other extreme environments.
