Mobile is the path of least resistance when it comes to introducing the masses to virtual and augmented reality and many eyes are on this particular branch of technology as breakthroughs are made in pursuit of delivering a powerful experience.
It pays to have some big names innovating with VR/AR and two huge tech entities are aiming to do just that with network specialist Nokia partnering with smartphone manufacturer Xiaomi for a cross-licensing patent deal.
The new deal, reported by CNBC, explains that the two companies will be seeking out mutually beneficial innovations specifically focused on VR, AR, artificial intelligence, and more. The patents will be of the “standard essential” classification, which involves the technology that brings their products to industry standards.
Xiaomi alone has applied for over 16,000 patents in 7 years with 4,000 of them granted. Nokia has established itself by setting many current mobile standards and their position in the industry could help to expand Xiaomi’s business, which is something CNBC discussed with a Xiaomi rep:
A spokesperson for Xiaomi told CNBC on Wednesday that the Nokia deal will help with global expansion, but it doesn’t mean the company is focusing on one particular market.
“Our collaboration with Nokia will enable us to tap on its leadership in building large, high-performance networks and formidable strength in software and services, as we seek to create even more remarkable products and services that deliver the best user experience to our (product brand) Mi fans worldwide,” says Lei Jun, chairman and CEO of Xiaomi, in the press release for the new announcement.
It may be quite a while before this partnership bears significant fruit, but it is an example of major companies embracing the long-term potential of VR and AR among their various businesses.
