Microsoft is suing TiVo alleging infringement of patents for a system that displays programme information and a secure method for buying and delivering video programmes.

TiVo, which has 2.7 million direct DVR subscribers, is using portions of the two Microsoft patents in its products or components, including set-top box products, subscription services and software, without a licence, according to a complaint filed in federal court.

Microsoft seeks a court order declaring its patents are valid and blocking TiVo from infringing them, as well as unspecified monetary damages.

“We remain open to resolving this situation through an intellectual-property licensing agreement, and we have initiated discussions to engage TiVo in negotiations,” Microsoft said.

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