MSFT UPDATE: Microsoft Prevails Against G
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UPDATE: Microsoft Prevails Against Google in ITC Xbox Case
(Updates with response from Motorola in the third paragraph.)
By Steven D. Jones
A federal trade panel has ruled that Microsoft Corp.'s (MSFT) Xbox doesn't infringe on wireless patents owned by Motorola Mobility, another in a series of legal decisions that could quiet patent litigation surrounding popular consumer electronic devices.
The International Trade Commission determined the technology Microsoft uses for wireless communication with the Xbox doesn't infringed on a Motorola patent for wireless connectivity.
"We're disappointed with this decision and are evaluating our options," said a statement from Motorola, now a unit of Google Inc. (GOOG). The decision followed a preliminary ruling in March from an ITC administration law judge.
"This is a win for Xbox customers and confirms our view that Google had no grounds to block our products," said Microsoft deputy general counsel David Howard in a statement.
Had the ITC found a violation, it could have banned import of the Xbox, which has been the best-selling video game terminal in the U.S. for 19 consecutive months, according to NPD Group.
The action is related to the complex patent case that began in late 2010 and now spans courts in the U.S. and Europe dealing primarily with technologies for mobile communication and displaying video.
Microsoft shares closed down 1.3%, to $34.15 Thursday, and Google shares finished 0.7% lower at $882.79.
Write to Steven D. Jones at steve-d.jones@dowjones.com
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