MS Files For NZ Patent On XML Word Processor Files

heretic108 writes "A patent application is currently being examined in New Zealand, which if granted, would bar anyone except Microsoft from using an XML file format for storing Word Processing documents. In contrast to copyrights, patents allow even the most elementary concepts to be patented. Apparently, nobody here is diligently watching out for such ridiculous patents, so the official deadline for submitting objections has passed. This suggests a likelihood that the patent may well be granted. I am not endeared to the thought that I might be breaking the law when I use OpenOffice.org to write documents, especially since the concept of storing docs in an XML format was certainly not thought of by Microsoft, so have written a formal complaint to my Member of Parliament. Hopefully there'll be a public outcry within New Zealand."

Comments

I obstifacite to prevent stupid people as well....

[Elivs]

I obstificate to prevent havest programs and stupid people all in one go.

My email page looks like this:

..........

Unfortunately due to "spam" I can't put my email address on the web without "email havesting programs" finding my email address and sending me unsolicited email. However you can probably work out what my email address is...

• I own the domain duke.co.uk
• My first name is richard
• It normal to have something like firstname@domain.co.uk as an email address

If you can guess what my email address is, feel free to email me. Most computer programs won't be clever enough to work it out, however I hope you are.