Velocity Micro is the next company to fall foul of Microsoft's IP shakedown, following HTC and General Dynamics Itronix into signing a settlement for the use of unspecified mobile patents.

The Microsoft IP-using devices in question are Velocity's Android-based Cruz tablets-- and Velocity will pay the price through royalty payments.

Analysts believe HTC pays something around $5 for every Android device it sells-- windfalls dwarfing what Microsoft earns through Windows Phone-- and that Microsoft is looking at even higher fees.

Now one only wonders if Microsoft will continue continue tracking down other companies selling Android-based devices for IP infringement...

Go Microsoft and Velocity Micro Sign Patent Agreement

Go Microsoft Received 5 Times More Income From Android Than Windows Phone