Microsoft is pushing for the adoption of Azure in the IoT segment by now offering innovators and startups a bit more value proposition with the expansion of Azure IP Advantage. Previously, Azure IP Advantage worked as a comprehensive intellectual properties protective package for Microsoft’s cloud customers.
AIP was first rolled out in 2017 and over the last couple of years has seen collaborative growth as its joined forces with the Open Invention Network (OIN) and the License on Transfer (LOT) Network. Today’s announcement is looking to bring IoT inventors in to the protective fold under similar risk protections that AIP had previously granted other cloud users.
As part of the expansions, Microsoft is also including some new features to the program such as:
- Uncapped indemnification coverage for Microsoft’s Azure Sphere and Windows IoT. Indemnification helps protect a customer from IP infringement claims asserted against the customer for its use of the product or service. Today’s expansion brings uncapped indemnification coverage to Azure Sphere and Windows IoT, including the open source software incorporated by Microsoft in these products.
- Access to 10,000 patents for customers using Azure to power IoT devices to defend themselves against IP lawsuits. This benefit can help deter patent lawsuits against Azure customers for their workloads and applications running in Azure or on their IoT devices, as qualified customers can pick a patent to use in their defense of a lawsuit.
- The ability for startups on Azure to acquire Microsoft patents to help boost their business. Qualified startups who also join the LOT Network can acquire Microsoft patents through LOT in technical areas including artificial intelligence, multimedia and security. Patents can play an important role for startups as they grow, look for ways to protect their innovations, and attract critical capital support.
With today’s additions, Erich Andersen, the corporate vice president and chief IP counsel of Microsoft’s Intellectual Property Group, believes the company “offers the most comprehensive, end-to-end framework for addressing IP risks in the cloud.”
Andersen isn’t alone in that assessment, both CEO of Applied Brain Research Peter Suma and head of IP and Services at thyssenkrupp GmbH Dr. Stephan Wolke had nothing but glowing commentary on the ease of use and sense of security Microsoft’s Azure IP Advantage services provides.
