Google file complaint against Nokia and Microsoft

Google have filed a formal complaint with the European Commission stating that Microsoft and Nokia have conspired to use their patents against smartphone industry rivals.

The complaint says that Nokia and Microsoft are using proxy computers to brandish patents and to damage the future of the Android operating system. Google have experienced great success in the smartphone sector, aided by the fact that it is free.

Google say that Microsoft and Nokia have moved 1,200 patents to assertion to a proxy company called Mosaid Technologies. Google have stated that this group are a ‘patent troll' which means they hold patents but litigate them aggressively and then share the accumulated revenue.

Google have described their filing as a pre emptive measure against a potential legal problem for Android partners. They want to make sure they take steps early so that their partners won't feel happier adopting Windows Phone instead.

Google said “Nokia and Microsoft are colluding to raise the costs of mobile devices for consumers, creating patent trolls that side-step promises both companies have made. They should be held accountable, and we hope our complaint spurs others to look into these practices.”

Microsoft and Nokia have not yet commenting on the new complaint. Google have said they plan to share the complaint with the U.S. competition regulators.

Kitguru says: Looks like the start of an aggressive legal battle in 2012.

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