Intel buys digital media patents from Real Networks for $120m

Intel has agreed to a deal with Real Networks to purchase 190 patents from the firm for $120m to help it boost the capabilities it can add to its smartphone and laptop technologies.

The chipmaker will also acquire 170 international patent applications and video codec software as part of the deal.

Intel said that the patents primarily covered streaming media in which Real Networks specialises and it hopes to bolster its ability to provide streaming media across multiple devices and platforms.

"The acquisition also enhances our ability to continue to offer richer experiences and innovative solutions to end users across a wide spectrum of devices, including through ultrabook devices, smartphones and digital media," the company said in a statement.

Intellectual property has become a hot commodity in recent months as many vendors find themselves facing patent infringement claims.

Among the high-profile legal battles currently taking place are cases surrounding mobile devices.

Apple, Samsung, HTC and Motorola have found themselves involved in numerous disputes over alleged violations in the iOS and Android mobile platforms.

Google's recent acquisition of Motorola Mobility was said to have been based in part on the firm's vast range of patent holdings.

Microsoft has capitalised on its own patent portfolio by striking licencing deals with vendors such as Samsung and Huawei over their use of the Android operating system.