Microsoft Suing TiVo Over Patent Infringement

Microsoft is taking AT&T's side in a patent infringement claim made by TiVo.

The Wall Street Journal reports that Microsoft filed a lawsuit against TiVo on late Tuesday in a San Francisco court, accusing the DVR manufacturer of an alleged patent infringement. The lawsuit is considered as retaliation against TiVo on behalf of AT&T.

TiVo filed an earlier suit against AT&T in regards to the telecommunications giant's Internet-based TV service, U-Verse, and possible infringements on TiVo technology. Microsoft is involved because U-Verse is powered by Microsoft's Mediaroom software.

Kevin Kutz, director of public affairs for Microsoft, told the WSJ that the company was willing to resolve the dispute through a licensing agreement, and has even attempted to hold talks with TiVo. The technology in question includes the presentation of programming information, and the means of purchasing and delivering video content.

Unfortunately, TiVo appears intent on pursuing AT&T. "We remain confident in our position that AT&T will be found to infringe on the TiVo patents asserted," the company said in a statement. TiVo also acknowledged Microsoft's involvement with AT&T's defense, and said that the recent lawsuit will not have any bearing on its case against AT&T.

TiVo also recently filed a lawsuit against Verizon Communications Inc, accusing the company of patent infringement related to the TV "time-warping" technology used in their DVRs. TiVo also has current, long-running disputes with Dish Networks Corp. and Echostar Corp. over the same DRV patent infringement claims.