Because of a Microsoft-owned patent it was revealed a few weeks back that HTC hands them $5 from every Android handset they sell. It seems that trend is continuing as Microsoft is lining everyone up and just sitting back and taking it all in. Two new Android manufacturers, Velocity Micro and General Dynamics, have announced they have entered into licensing agreements with Microsoft, basically handing royalty cheques over to them.
“Microsoft Corp. and General Dynamics Itronix have signed a patent agreement that provides broad coverage under Microsoft’s patent portfolio for General Dynamics Itronix devices running the Android platform. Although the contents of the agreement have not been disclosed, the parties indicate that Microsoft will receive royalties from General Dynamics Itronix under the agreement.”
The more adoption Android gets, the more money Microsoft makes.
