Microsoft to add Google Maps to patent infringement claims in Motorola lawsuit

It looks like Google Maps could be in trouble as Microsoft has expanded their patent case against Motorola, and have added Google to the mix, considering that Google now owns Motorola Mobility. To that extent Microsoft has also added a patent infringement claim on Google Maps, stating that they believe that Google’s service infringed upon a patent Microsoft owned back in 1995 which still has a good 3 years left. The lawsuit was announced in Germany and it was noted that should Microsoft be successful in their claims, Google Maps could no longer be made available in Germany next year along with every Android device that relies on it.

Supposedly every Android manufacturer has licensed Microsoft’s patent portfolio, but according to FOSS Patents’ Florian Mueller, Google opposed Motorola’s licensing of Microsoft’s patent portfolio which has ultimately led to the lawsuit. We’re not sure how this will play out, but safe to say Microsoft’s victory will have an extremely huge impact on Android devices so we’ll keep our eyes peeled for more information when it has been made available.

Tyler Lee
Categories: Cellphones
Tags: Google Maps, Legal, Microsoft, Motorola