Microsoft buys Liquid Audio's
intellectual property
By Susan Rush
From The September 30, 2002 Edition Of CED Broadband Direct
Microsoft Corp. has snapped up Liquid Audio Inc.'s
patents for cash consideration of $7 million.
The streaming media software provider enables music fans to download
and purchase digital files off the Internet, but is trying to
shift its focus from product development to digital distribution
of media to retail.
In the deal, Microsoft gains access to several of Liquid Audio's
key patents related to its technology and product architecture,
including patents for digital rights management and technology
to enable the secure transfer of content to portable devices.
Microsoft has agreed to grant Liquid Audio a royalty-free license
to continue using the patented technology in its digital distribution
system.
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