Microsoft and Kyocera Mita have signed a patent cross-licensing agreement to allow access to each company's respective patent portfolio.

The agreement encompasses a "broad range" of patents and is designed to help further both firm's research and development efforts.

Under the terms of the agreement, Kyocera Mita will gain access to Microsoft's patents for Kyocera Mita's current and future product lines, including multifunction products, printers, copiers and certain Linux-based embedded devices.

Microsoft will gain access to Kyocera Mita patents for Microsoft's current and future product lines, including Windows, Office and other IT product lines.

The deal, terms of which are not being disclosed, is the latest in a long line for Microsoft.

The software giant launched its intellectual licensing programme in December 2003, and since then has entered into more than 200 licensing agreements.