Google, Samsung sign patent cross-licensing deal for next 10 years

Google and Samsung have reportedly signed a long-term cross-licensing deal, taking into account their existing patents and the future ones filed over the next 10 years.

The two companies are popularly known for their association over the Android operating system and have now signed the deal touted 'mutually beneficial'.

Although, the two technology companies did not reveal the exact nature of patents covered under the new deal, they didn't fall short of taking pot shots at Apple for its alleged patent battle with Samsung, Cnet reports.

Head of Samsung's Intellectual Property Center, Seungho Ahn, said that Samsung and Google are showing the rest of the industry that there is more to gain from cooperating than engaging in unnecessary patent disputes.

Meanwhile, deputy general counsel for patents at Google Allen Lo, said that by working together on agreements like this, companies can reduce the potential for litigation and focus instead on innovation.

As Samsung and Apple have been embroiled in patent battle related to mobile technology across continents, the court has ordered the two companies to hold talks by February 19 to try to resolve their issues before facing the jury in March.