Earlier today the internet went on high alert when word came out that RIM and Microsoft were signing some sort of licensing agreement. Initial thoughts were that RIM was licensing BlackBerry 10 over to Microsoft and the stock had a nice jump on that news. The true story was; however, not nearly as awesome or beneficial for Research In Motion. The licensure agreement was not for Microsoft to use RIM’s technology, but rather for RIM to use some of Microsoft’s.
RIM has signed on for a license to use Microsoft’s exFAT file system, which is the short form for Microsoft Extended File Allocation Table. Now that RIM has access to the exFAT system, they can use this to improve the memory and file transfer system in future BlackBerry devices. Since this deal is being signed with BlackBerry 10 still months away, it’s entirely possible we will see exFAT on BlackBerry 10 devices. Read on past the break for the full Press Release regarding the licensing deal.
Press Release
Microsoft Signs Licensing Agreement with Research In Motion
REDMOND, Wash. — Sept. 18, 2012 — Microsoft Corp. announced today that Microsoft and Research In Motion (RIM) have signed a patent licensing agreement that gives RIM broad access to the latest Extended File Allocation Table (exFAT) for certain BlackBerry devices of RIM. exFAT is a modern file system from Microsoft that facilitates large files for audiovisual media and enables seamless data portability and an easy interchange between desktop PCs and other electronic devices.
exFAT improves on its predecessor, the FAT system, and greatly expands the size of files that flash memory devices can handle by five times over previous FAT technology. It also increases the speed with which those files can be accessed. The exFAT file system not only facilitates large files for use of audiovisual media, it enables seamless data portability and an easy interchange between desktop PCs and a variety of electronic devices.
“Today’s smartphones and tablets require the capacity to display richer images and data than traditional cellular phones,” said David Kaefer, general manager of Intellectual Property (IP) Licensing at Microsoft. “This agreement with RIM highlights how a modern file system, such as exFAT can help directly address the specific needs of customers in the mobile industry.”
Microsoft’s Commitment to Intellectual Property Collaboration
Microsoft offers flexible IP licensing programs that give companies access to many of the foundational technologies in its own products, allowing those companies to build devices, applications and services that work seamlessly with each other.
Since Microsoft launched its IP licensing program in December 2003, the company has entered into more than 1100 licensing agreements and continues to develop programs that make it possible for customers, partners and competitors to access its IP portfolio. The program was developed to open access to Microsoft’s significant R&D investments and its growing, broad patent and IP portfolio.
Microsoft has entered into similar licensing agreements with several leading consumer electronics manufacturers through its IP licensing program, including Panasonic Corp., SANYO Electric Company Ltd., Sony Corp. and Canon Inc.
More information on Microsoft’s IP licensing program is available athttp://www.microsoft.com/iplicensing, and information specifically related to Microsoft’s exFAT licensing program is available here.
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
Justin Lisenby
Latest posts by Justin Lisenby (see all)
- Press Release: Introhive Launches for BlackBerry 10 Platform - May 14, 2013
- BBM Channel Signup Now Available in the BlackBerry Beta Zone - May 14, 2013
- BBM Goes Cross-Platform: Coming to iOS and Android This Summer - May 14, 2013
Follow us