Germany drops the ban hammer on Microsoft’s Xbox 360

A patent dispute between Microsoft and Motorola has led to an injunction banning the Xbox 360 from being distributed in Germany.  The disagreement stems from Microsoft's use of H.264 video compression technology.

The Xbox 360 is just part of a line of Microsoft items blocked from distribution in the country.  Windows 7, Internet Explorer, and Windows Media Player are also banned in Germany.

Anticipating the ruling, Microsoft, last month, moved its European distribution from Germany to the Netherlands.

"This is one step in a long process, and we are confident that Motorola will eventually be held to its promise to make its standard essential patents available on fair and reasonable terms for the benefit of consumers who enjoy video on the web," Microsoft said in a statement

"Motorola is prohibited from acting on today's decision, and our business in Germany will continue as usual while we appeal this decision and pursue the fundamental issue of Motorola's broken promise.”