BL10: CUFADM02A Posting: Finding / Describing a Copyright, Licencing or Intellectual Property Dispute Case – Film, TV, Games or Multimedia Industry

Search Engine used: www.bbc.co.uk
Search Parameters: Copyright Dispute+Game Industry
Article Title: "Microsoft settles Xbox dispute"
Posted Date of Article: 16 Jun 2001
Background Information about Case:
Microsoft wanted to release a video game console with the name “Xbox” but found that a small technology company already held the rights to the name Xbox. While the details of the deal made between the two companies are being kept “under wraps”, the result is that XBOX Technologies will alter their name and drop their challenge to Microsoft’s use of the name Xbox, in return for an undisclosed reward.
Basically, XBOX Technologies sold their name to Microsoft to be used as the name of a video game console.
Key Features of Case, relevance to Copyright
o XBOX Technologies filed applications with the US Patent and Trademark Office to use the Xbox name in March 1999.
o Six months later, Microsoft made its first Xbox filing
o February 2001, the companies stated they were in talks to settle dispute and to avoid lengthy arbitration process by patent office.
o Xbox console is Microsoft’s first entry into home gaming market, which is very lucrative industry.
Outcome of Case and main consequences for parties.
o Microsoft bought the rights to the name Xbox for a lot of money.
o Robert Koolen of Knowledge Mechanics, a computer-based education company that is the main holder of XBOX Technologies, stated “It was a very, very mutually satisfying agreement,” when asked about the deal made.