Microsoft and research

Microsoft ranks ahead of IBM in terms of international patent applications, according to the World Intellectual Property Organization. Microsoft was eighth overall last year, with Japan's Matsushita on top.

To produce its IP, Microsoft invests $7 billion a year on research and development. Most of it is actually spent outside its Microsoft Research (MSR) division, which still boasts 800 researchers worldwide -- more than many major universities.

source: computerw world