Lenovo, Microsoft extend partnership
Companies extend their working relationship to promote the Windows operating system around the world,
Lenovo and Microsoft have extended their working relationship to promote the Windows operating system around the world, the companies announced Monday. Lenovo will buy $1.2 billion worth of Microsoft software during the next 12 months as part of the deal, which also focuses on anticounterfeiting efforts in China, they said.
Software counterfeiting is a problem in China and other emerging markets, but Lenovo, working at Microsoft's behest, is trying to convince its customers in China that genuine software is more valuable than counterfeit copies. China recently ordered PC makers in the country to ship PCs with operating systems loaded before those systems are sold to businesses and consumers. Intellectual property concerns are expected to be a frequent topic of discussion during the visit of China's President Hu Jintao visit to the U.S. this week, which includes a stop for dinner at Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates' house Monday night.