A US federal appeals court in San Francisco has overturned a patent infringement ruling against Microsoft and ordered a lower court to retry the case against the company. Originally, the verdict found that parts of Microsoft's Internet Explorer Web browser had infringed on technology developed by privately-held firm Eolas Technologies and the University of California. Now, it has been ruled that key parts of Microsoft's defence were not properly considered.

"A spokesman for Washington state-based Microsoft said it is looking forward to presenting its case again. No date has been set for a retrial."