Ainsworth Game Technology and Aristocrat Technologies Australia have entered into a patent licensing agreement effective August 14, 2026. The deal grants Ainsworth access to Aristocrat’s game play patents, including the Hold & Spin family, within the Australian market.
Under the three-and-a-half-year contract, Ainsworth will pay Aristocrat $8.5m in installments. The arrangement includes a royalty-bearing license for game play mechanics and a royalty-free license for responsible gaming patents. Both companies have released each other from claims regarding past use of these patents and agreed to a mutual non-challenge covenant.
Strategic Implementation and Market Access
Ainsworth CEO Ryan Comstock stated that the agreement provides the certainty needed for strategic growth initiatives in Australia. He noted that the license covers features allowing the company to incorporate them into electronic game machines and online titles manufactured or serviced by third parties. Comstock added that pass-through rights ensure customers and venues are automatically licensed to operate and resell units.
Aristocrat Chief Product Officer Matthew Primmer welcomed the arrangement, emphasizing the company's commitment to protecting the work of its creative and technical teams. The specific terms regarding the period after the initial term remain confidential.
Earlier this summer, Ainsworth announced changes to its leadership board.