Trying to avoid being sued by Microsoft
GPS maker TomTom has joined a collective of companies that have pooled
their patents in an effort to help defend open-source software against
legal threats.
TomTom is being sued by Microsoft in a patent dispute over a number of
patents, including several related to TomTom's use of the Linux kernel.
The Open Invention Network said that TomTom had joined its ranks. Peter
Spours, director of IP at TomTom, said by becoming an Open Invention
Network licensee, we encourage Linux development and foster innovation
in a technical community that benefits everyone.
Last week TomTom counter-sued Microsoft, saying the software maker
violates some of TomTom's patents.
It is not clear if the new collective will help TomTom in its legal woes.