Last year, TechCrunch reported that Microsoft is in talks to buy Osterhout Design Group for $200 million. While ODG’s current product lineup_might not be a great fit within Microsoft’s overall company strategy, we then reported that their technology will help Microsoft to build new products like Fortaleza glasses. Osterhout Design Group also owns 140 patents related to wearable computing, so Microsoft can also benefit from it. Today, TechCrunch reported more information about this Microsoft’s deal with ODG. Microsoft has paid up to $150 million to buy IP assets related to augmented reality, head-borne computers, and related items from the Osterhout Design Group. “In terms of what we’re doing [at ODG], we don’t meake weapons. We make things that can help people do their jobs,” he says. “The real focus are features that are applicable in the consumer space, too.” In other words, ODG may already be talking to other companies for consumer products; or its door is open to that possibility. In any case, you can follow the patent trail...
The rest of the story...
Microsoft News