Microsoft and wireless electronics accessory maker Belkin settled their patent infringement dispute today with Belkin agreeing to license Microsoft’s U2 technology.
The settlement comes more than two years after the companies began negotiations and four months after Microsoft filed an infringement complaint over the issue with the International Trade Commission.
According to Tom Burt, Microsoft’s corporate vice president and deputy general counsel for Microsoft, the Compton, Calif.-based Belkin persisted in importing unlicensed U2 products into the United States.
“We’re glad to have reached a settlement with Microsoft and we are satisfied with the outcome,” said a company spokesman.
The technology allows a computer peripheral device to auto-sense whether it is plugging into a PS2 or USB port and to connect to it. The plug-and-play U2 technology allows users to attach devices to computers without having to deal with connection settings.
Microsoft did not seek monetary damages against Belkin.
Belkin joins Targus, KYE Systems, Monterey International, Behavior Tech Computer and Fellowes, among others, who have licensing agreements with Microsoft to use the U2 technology.
“We are committed to licensing our patents on reasonable terms to all who use our technology,” Burt said.
