Microsoft announced on Monday a patent licensing agreement with Motorola Solutions, providing worldwide coverage under Redmond’s patent portfolio for Motorola Solutions’ devices running the Android platform and Chrome OS operating system.

“Microsoft and Motorola Solutions share a respect for intellectual property and a commitment to fair and reasonable patent licensing programs,” says Nick Psyhogeos, general manager, associate general counsel, IP licensing of the Innovation and Intellectual Property Group, Microsoft.

“Microsoft prefers licensing to litigation, since licensing is a more effective way to share technology and accelerate the pace of innovation.”

According to Redmond, the patent agreement is another example of the important role intellectual property (IP) plays in ensuring a healthy and vibrant technology ecosystem.

Since Microsoft launched its IP licensing program in December 2003, the company has entered into more than 1,100 licensing agreements and continues to develop programs that open Microsoft’s IP portfolio for customers, partners and competitors.

The program was developed to provide access to Microsoft’s significant R&D investments and its growing, broad patent and IP portfolio.

Microsoft’s specific patent licensing program for Android device-makers has resulted in signed license agreements with numerous companies, including Samsung, ZTE, LG, HTC, Acer and Barnes & Noble.

“Our Motorola Solutions communications technology works best for everyone when it is backed with robust intellectual property and patents,” adds Joe White, vice president of Enterprise Mobile Computing, Motorola Solutions.

“We are pleased to have agreed upon a solution that allows our customers to purchase Android products from Motorola Solutions with confidence.”