Microsoft, LG ink patent deal; Broadcom will launch processors for high-end smartphones

Quick news from around the Web

 @FierceWireless ZTE Scores U.S. Distribution Deal with PCS Wireless. Article | Follow@FierceWireless

> Crown Castle International will acquire 2,300 ground lease assets from Wireless Capital Partners for approximately $180 million in cash and the assumption of approximately $320 million of debt. Release

> Broadcom will launch new application processors for the higher-end smartphone segment by year-end. Article

> Fujitsu, which makes smartphones for Japan, wants to bring its devices to the North American market. Article

> Microsoft and LG signed a patent agreement for LG's Android and Chrome OS platform tablets, mobile phones and other devices. Release

> Credit-default swaps on Dish Network climbed on speculation that the company might be considering a bid for T-Mobile USA. Article

> Backhaul provider DragonWave reported an $8 million loss. Article

Broadband Wireless News

> WiGig, the technology behind the evolving 802.11d standard for ultra-high-speed wireless data transfers and in-home docking and content applications, made waves this week. Article

> Entropic Communications is demonstrating MoCA-to-Wi-Fi Ethernet-to-Coax adapters that allow consumers to broaden home Wi-Fi coverage by attaching multiple Wi-Fi access points to a MoCA backbone. Article

European Wireless News

> Free Mobile launched its mobile phone services in France with prices that are significantly lower than existing operators. Article

> Juniper Research indicates sales of in-game items will grow from $2.1 billion in 2011 to $4.8 billion in 2016. Article

> Telefónica Digital partnered with FeedHenry to launch a platform to enable businesses to build their own applications. Article

> Everything Everywhere confirmed it will auction its spectrum in the 1800 MHz frequency band. Article

Mobile Content News

> Why mobile commerce is set to cash in big in 2012. Commentary

> Sony Entertainment Network will expand its Music Unlimited streaming service to Apple's iPhone and iPad. Article

> Verizon Wireless will be rolling out a new bundled app package for selected smartphones. Article

> eBay is on pace to reach $8 billion in mobile gross merchandise volume in 2012, up from $5 billion in 2011, according to CEO John Donahoe. Article

And finally... Is there really a cellphone that can maintain its charge for up to 15 years on just a single AA battery? Article