Understanding Cross-Licensing Agreement: A Key Legal Tool for Patent Holders

Definition & Meaning

A cross-licensing agreement is a legal arrangement in which two or more parties that hold patents agree to exchange licenses. This allows each party to use the other's patented technology without paying royalties. Typically, the patents involved cover different essential aspects of a product, enabling both parties to bring their products to market without legal hindrance.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A smartphone manufacturer holds a patent for a unique camera technology, while a software company has a patent for a user interface. They enter into a cross-licensing agreement, allowing both to use each other's technology in their products without paying royalties.

Example 2: Two pharmaceutical companies each hold patents for different components of a drug formulation. They agree to a cross-licensing arrangement to combine their technologies and develop a new medication together. (hypothetical example)

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering entering into a cross-licensing agreement, it's important to clearly define the terms and scope of the licenses involved. You can explore ready-to-use legal form templates on US Legal Forms to help draft your agreement. If your situation is complex or involves significant legal implications, consulting a legal professional is advisable.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical Fees No monetary royalties exchanged
Jurisdiction Varies by state and industry
Potential Benefits Access to complementary technologies, reduced litigation risk

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It is an agreement where two or more parties exchange licenses to use each other's patents without paying royalties.