Microsoft Signs Mega-Patent Deal With Samsung - Ina Fried - Mobile - AllThingsD

Somehow I suspect subsidizing Windows Phone was not on Google’s goal list for Android

Microsoft is announcing today the biggest Android-related patent deal to date, signing a broad cross-licensing agreement with Samsung.

With the deal, Microsoft will get royalty revenue on every Android smartphone and tablet that Samsung sells. Redmond already has a deal with another major handset maker — HTC — that sells both Android and Windows Phone devices.

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While much of the focus around the Samsung agreement is likely to concern patents and Android, the deal also calls for the companies to continue to work together on Windows Phone.

“Microsoft and Samsung see the opportunity for dramatic growth in Windows Phones and we’re investing to make that a reality,” Windows Phone unit president Andy Lees said in a statement.

Microsoft Signs Mega-Patent Deal With Samsung - Ina Fried - Mobile - AllThingsD