The Battle for Mobile Supremacy: Microsoft Joins Forces with HTC Against Apple
As you may have heard, Apple filed a massive lawsuit against phone-maker HTC nearly two months ago. The Cupertino-based tech giant is alleging that HTC is infringing on over 20 of its iPhone patents. While HTC makes phones for a number of partners, it’s pretty clear that this is Apple going after Google’s Android platform indirectly.
A Twist in the Battle: Microsoft’s Deal with HTC
And now Google may have just found an unlikely ally in this fight: Microsoft. Yes, the software giant, which makes the rival Windows Mobile (and soon Windows Phone 7) phone software has announced a deal with HTC that allows them to license their patented technology.
At first glance, this deal may seem like a no-brainer for both parties involved. After all, HTC also makes Windows Mobile phones, and Microsoft’s patent portfolio is undoubtedly massive. However, the key to this deal lies in Microsoft’s statement on the matter:
"Microsoft Corp. and HTC Corp. have signed a patent agreement that provides broad coverage under Microsoft’s patent portfolio for HTC’s mobile phones running the Android mobile platform."
This statement raises more questions than answers. Why would Microsoft, which has been at odds with Google in recent times, help out its rival by allowing HTC to license their patented technology? And what exactly does this mean for Apple’s lawsuit against HTC?
A Closer Look at the Deal
The agreement between Microsoft and HTC is likely to provide HTC with a significant boost in its fight against Apple. By licensing Microsoft’s patented technology, HTC will be able to cover itself if Microsoft decides to go after Google directly. And let’s not forget that this deal also expands HTC’s long-standing business relationship with Microsoft.
But what about the potential implications for Android? If Microsoft is indeed claiming that Android infringes on its patents, as reported by CNET, then this deal may have more to do with HTC covering itself if Microsoft decides to go after Google. This development adds a new layer of complexity to the ongoing battle between Apple, Google, and Microsoft.
Microsoft’s Motives
As Ina Fried reports:
"Microsoft has taken the position, according to those close to the company, that Android infringes on the company’s patented technology and that the infringement applies broadly in areas ranging from the user interface to the underlying operating system."
So, is Microsoft using this deal as a way to both threaten and inadvertently help Google? It’s hard to say for sure at this point. However, one thing is clear: Microsoft’s involvement in this battle may just be the catalyst that changes the landscape of the mobile industry forever.
A New Player Enters the Fray
As we explore the implications of this deal further, it becomes increasingly clear that Microsoft’s motivations are not entirely altruistic. While they may be providing HTC with a much-needed boost against Apple, their ultimate goal is likely to receive royalties from HTC for each device sold – yes, Android devices.
This development adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing battle between the tech giants. Will this deal ultimately lead to a strengthening of Microsoft’s position in the mobile market? Or will it simply be a temporary reprieve for HTC and Google?
The Future of Mobile
As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of the mobile industry, one thing is certain: only time will tell what the long-term implications of this deal will be. Will Apple ultimately prevail in its lawsuit against HTC? Or will Microsoft’s involvement prove to be a turning point in the battle for mobile supremacy?
The answer lies in the future. But one thing is clear: the ongoing battle between Apple, Google, and Microsoft has just become even more fascinating.
Update
In light of new information, we’ve updated our coverage to reflect the changing landscape. Stay tuned for further updates as this story continues to unfold.
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