Microsoft continues to expand its grip over Linux and the solutions derived from the open source operating system. In this context, the Redmond company has applauded but the latest of a long series of patent cross-licensing agreements this time with Japanese company Kyocera Mita. As was the case with past partnerships, Microsoft and Kyocera Mita will essentially have access to each other's patent portfolio, a move that became possible with the debut of the Intellectual Property Licensing program from the Redmond company. Neither company disclosed the terms of the agreement.

"We believe that intellectual property licensing is an empowering way to bring innovation to the IT ecosystem," said David Kaefer, general manager of Intellectual Property and Licensing at Microsoft. "Customers will benefit from this agreement because both Microsoft and Kyocera Mita will have access to an extensive range of technologies that will allow each company to enhance its respective products. In addition, this agreement also delivers on our promise to continue to build a bridge between open source and proprietary software and technologies."

"It was an honor to fairly value and assess each other's patents, as this agreement allows both companies to benefit from enhanced patent portfolios", said Shinji Osaki, general manager of the Legal and Intellectual Property Division and executive officer of Kyocera Mita. "I believe this agreement will improve the productivity of both our businesses and result in offering reassurances and increased satisfaction for all our customers."

Microsoft's IP licensing program debuted in December 2003 and the company has inked in excess of 200 patent licensing agreements up to the present. Still, with each new partnership, and especially following the agreement signed with Novell in November 2006 over Windows-Linux interoperability and intellectual property assurance, the company has strongly emphasized each new IP move involving the open source operating system. Case in point - the agreement with Kyocera Mita covers both hardware and software products but also Linux-based technologies.