Google, Samsung Said to Express Microsoft-Nokia Concern to China

Google Inc. and Samsung Electronics Co. joined Chinese mobile phone makers in expressing concern to China that Microsoft Corp.’s bid to take over Nokia Oyj’s phone business may result in higher patent licensing fees, two government officials familiar with the matter said.

Google and Samsung asked China’s Ministry of Commerce to make sure that the 5.44 billion euro ($7.5 billion) bid doesn’t result in higher fees on wireless technology patents that will remain with Nokia, the two officials said, asking not to be identified because the request wasn’t made public. They’re also concerned Microsoft will gain more power over the smartphone market and may abuse its patents, according to the people.