Microsoft Corp. has signed a patent agreement with Coby Electronics Corporation and Aluratek Inc. The agreement provides broad coverage under Microsoft’s patent portfolio for the products of these companies running the Android or Chrome Platform.

Although the contents of the agreement have not been disclosed, the parties indicate that Microsoft will receive royalties from Coby and Aluratek Inc under the agreement.

“We are pleased to have reached this agreement with Coby and Aluratek Inc”, said Horacio Gutierrez, corporate vice president and deputy general counsel, Intellectual Property Group at Microsoft. “This agreement confirms once again that the best way to resolve IP issues such as those surrounding Android and Chrome is through a reasonable licensing arrangement.”

“As an innovator in the consumer electronics industry, Coby likewise respects the intellectual property rights of other innovators like Microsoft,” said Vincent Castiglione, General Counsel of Coby Electronics Corporation. “We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Microsoft.”

Microsoft said that the patent agreement is another example of the important role intellectual property plays in ensuring a healthy and vibrant IT ecosystem. Since Microsoft launched its IP licensing program in December 2003, the company has entered into more than 1,100 licensing agreements and continues to develop programs that make it possible for customers, partners and competitors to access its IP portfolio. The program was developed to open access to Microsoft’s significant R&D investments and its growing, broad patent and IP portfolio.