It looks as if Microsoft’s lawyers are going to be pretty busy these days.  Recently Microsoft has realized that Google’s Android OS infringes on many of Microsoft’s software patents.  While Microsoft has declined to say how the Android OS specifically infringes on their patents they did say they believe that elements from both the user interface and underlying operating system are in violation of its rights.  This is in keeping with the Windows maker’s campaign to leverage patent claims over Linux, Amazon, Xandros and GPS developer TomTom.  While lawsuits are not yet being discussed this is hardly a small time matter.  Longtime Windows Mobile partner HTC has already decided to purchase a license from Microsoft that covers its Android devices, like the HTC Tilt, to reduce the risk of a possible lawsuit from Microsoft.

While it would be pretty crazy for Microsoft to sue one of its biggest and most important hardware manufacturers for patent infringement HTC is taking no chances by purchasing the Microsoft license.  It is rather unfortunate that HTC has to pay Microsoft royalties in order to use Google’s operating system these recent developments may be more of an indictment on Google than the other mobile device manufacturers. 

By forcing their Windows Mobile/Windows Phone partners to purchase a license to run Google’s Android platform Microsoft is leaving open the option of a lawsuit with Google itself down the line.  While this is a rather unfortunate turn of events for other companies such as HTC it is a nasty necessity if they want to utilize the Android platform without further possible lawsuits from Microsoft.  The cost of the Microsoft licenses far outweighs the potential damage that could be caused by a lawsuit for patent infringement.