Microsoft's Android Patent Claim Could Delay Google's Motorola Acquisition

The hearing on Microsoft’s claims that Motorola’s Android-run devices infringed on its patents will begin at the U.S. International Trade Commission on Monday.

Microsoft had approached the U.S. International Trade Commission to seek permission to bar Motorolla from entering the U.S. market as Motorola’s Android–based smartphones have infringed on nine patents related to syncing e-mail, calendar, and contacts, and notifying applications about changes in signal strength and battery power.

As Motorola will be going it alone against Microsoft in the several patents issued, Google’s acquisition of Motorola may take time to happen officially.

However, Google CEO, Larry Page said: “Our acquisition of Motorola will increase competition by strengthening Google’s patent portfolio, which will enable us to better protect Android from anti-competitive threats from Microsoft, Apple and other companies.”

Microsoft has filed patent issues with the ITC against other mobile-device maker, including Barnes&Nobes for its Nook electronic reading tablet. Apple has sued Samsung Electronics, saying Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 infringes its iPad 2 patents. It sued HTC for alleged infringement on iPhone patents.

The hearing procedure on Microsoft’s claim, which will start on Monday, will go on for 10 days and the final verdict is expected only in 2012.

Earlier this month, Google had sought to block one of Microsoft’s expert witnesses from testifying, arguing that Microsoft improperly disclosed Android source code with him. Last week, Essex denied that request, ruling that Google didn't appear to make an attempt to resolve the matter within the rules he has set for the case.