Microsoft sues TomTom over Linux patent claims

According to TechFlash

Microsoft filed suit against TomTom, alleging that the in-car navigation company’s devices violate eight of its patents — including three that relate to TomTom’s implementation of the Linux kernel.

Asked if this TomTom case is the start of a broader legal campaign over those alleged violations, Gutierrez , Microsoft corporate vice president, said no.

“Microsoft respects and appreciates the important role that open-source software plays in our industry and we respect and appreciate the passion and the great contribution that open-source developers make in our industry,” Gutierrez said. He said that respect and appreciation is “not inconsistent with our respect for intellectual-property rights.”

I don’t follow this. Does that mean they won’t sue the open source community for patent violation, but they will sue anyone who uses the product from open source community?

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