Google Buys More Patents from IBM
11 January 2012 Category News, Patents, Designs & Copyright
Google has added to its patent portfolio by purchasing patents and patent applications from IBM, one of the biggest companies in the world. The latest acquisition will add nearly 200 patents to the 1,000 the search engine company bought from IBM in 2011.
How to Get a Patent
For many companies, getting a patent is the last part of a long process that involves research, development and testing. Google isn’t an R&D company, but it competes with companies which are. Patent infringement suits against Google, particularly for its Android operating system, have put it on the back foot in the intellectual property stakes and it needs a clear strategy to protect its business for the future. This means that it needs a patent portfolio and, consequently, Google has decided to acquire patents from other sources; including paying over £7 billion for the Mobility division of Motorola which owned 25,000 patents. Google now has a substantial portfolio of patents that cover a wide range of existing and potential technology, including:
• Social networking
• Web-based applications across multiple devices
• Computer phones
• Database design and management
Patent attorneys and Google-watchers think that the company is now adopting a strategy whereby the patents that it buys are chosen to bolster its future position as well as to defend its current one.
Google Not Always Patent Winner
Despite adding a significant number of patents to its collection, Google missed out on the valuable group of patents being sold by Canadian telecoms company Nortel last year when it was declared bankrupt. The successful bidders included companies that are directly competing with Google and, in some cases, which are involved in patent infringement suits against them. With a high profile, significant market share and competing in one of the fastest-moving and fastest-growing sectors in the world, Google needs to ensure that it stays on top of its patent portfolio.
Patent Advice from SH&P
At Stevens Hewlett & Perkins, our patent attorneys can give you professional advice on patents, trade marks and design rights, helping you to protect your business for the long term. We can advise on making the most of your current intellectual property portfolio, or we can help you to patent a new product or process to get your business off the ground. Your first hour’s consultation with one of our experts is free of charge, so make an appointment with us today.
