With reliance on computer systems steadily increasing, it's not surprising that file sizes are also increasing to match. Transferring those large files from one computer to another can also be comparatively difficult, or at least time consuming. Thus, Microsoft (News - Alert) and Sharp have recently reached a licensing agreement that gives Microsoft access to Sharp's exFAT system, and makes the concept of moving files from one place to another much simpler.
The exact terms of the licensing agreement weren't disclosed, but what was disclosed was that the agreement gives Microsoft access to Sharp's (News - Alert) exFAT, or extended File Allocation Table, a system that allows various electronic devices—including smartphones and personal computers—to more effectively transfer large files between themselves.
The technology is actually currently in use on Sharp smartphones, so putting it in play on PCs may be a smart idea. Microsoft has several similar deals with other companies, including Sony, Canon, and Sanyo (News - Alert), so this kind of thing is par for the course for Microsoft, and gives them access to several new technologies that they might not have had ordinarily.
Microsoft, meanwhile, desperately needs some hits, and needs them in rapid fashion. Microsoft recently reported a fourth-quarter loss due to a write-down in online services and deferred revenue related to the upcoming launch of Windows 8. Slumping PC sales aren't helping, though Microsoft's dominance in the Office suite is providing some extra padding against those losses.
Still, with Windows Phone (News - Alert) making slow progress at best against the well-entrenched competition, and the PC market looking at a bit of a slump—not to mention Microsoft's gaming division having seen better days overall—things aren't looking the greatest for Microsoft right now. Offering a way to easily and rapidly move large files from one device to another would likely be a welcome move, and the arrangement with Sharp may just provide that move.
Only time will tell if Microsoft's newest licensing agreement provides the extra boost to Microsoft's somewhat flagging fortunes of late, but still, it's clear that Microsoft's making a move, and hopefully a move that will be well-received by the electronic users' community at large.