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Spansion and IBM have signed a cross-licensing agreement that includes both companies' leading-edge flash memory technology. Included in Spansion's patent portfolio are patents relating to its charge-trapping ‘MirrorBit’ technology. IBM is including its recently revealed ‘racetrack’ magnetic domain walls technology that could be developed into 3D memory devices. 

 "We are greatly impressed with IBM's relentless commitment to invest in disruptive technology, as well as the breadth and depth of their patent portfolio," said Dr. Louis Parrillo, Executive Vice President, Research and Development for Spansion. "We believe entering into this patent cross license agreement with IBM gives us access to some of the most advanced technology in the world, providing Spansion the opportunity to further its leadership in Flash memory design, manufacturing and overall innovation."

"As the memory market continues to evolve, both technically and economically, IBM continues to do advanced research on new storage and memory technologies," said Tom Reeves, VP Business Development, IBM Technology and Intellectual Property.  "IBM is open to forming new partnerships for the development and commercialization of such technologies."

Spansion and IBM will also partner on the continued development of Flash memory solutions specifically for the Chinese market, the companies said.