Intel acquires $120m worth of patents from RealNetworks

Under terms of the sale, RealNetworks retains certain rights to continue to use the patents in current and future products. Thomas Neilsen, RealNetworks' president and ceo, said: "Selling these patents to Intel unlocks some of the substantial and unrealised value of RealNetworks assets. It represents an extraordinary opportunity for us to generate additional capital to boost investments in new businesses and markets while still protecting our existing business." According to Intel, the newly acquired patents and video codec software will be used across a range of devices, including its Ultrabook devices, smartphones and digital media. The two companies also signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on future support and development of the next generation video codec software and related products. RealNetworks said it doesn't anticipate that the sale of the approximately 190 patents and 170 patent applications and next generation video codec software will have any material impact on its businesses. Renée James, Intel senior vice president and general manager of the Software and Services Group, added: "As the technology industry evolves towards an experience centric model, users are demanding more media and graphics capabilities in their computing devices. The acquisition of these foundational media patents, additional patents and video codec software expands Intel's diverse and extensive portfolio of intellectual property.