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Microsoft Receives XML Patent

Posted by CowboyNeal on from the speculation-turned-reality dept.

gsfprez writes "Well, i'm no patent lawyer, but if I'm reading this right, it seems that the basics of XML are being patented by Microsoft. If not the files themselves - at least what most of us would do with XML files. From the abstract: 'Systems, methods and data structures for encompassing scripts written in one or more scripting languages in a single file.' That smacks of what my config files do on my G5 for my G5, if you read it with a biased eye." We noted this was happening earlier, and now it's finally come to pass. While the patent does sound a bit dubious, a Microsoft spokesman was quick to deny that they'd be so bold as to patent XML itself.

7 of 441 comments (clear)

  1. Quick... by shrykk · · Score: 5, Funny

    Someone go patent .txt files!

    --
    #define struct union /* Reduce memory usage */
  2. My eyes must be old.. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    I first read the headline as "Microsoft Receives XML Patent".... oh shit that was the headline.

  3. bait and switch by conteXXt · · Score: 5, Funny

    and they sneak a patent though while we all look for the source code.

    --
    The truth about Led Zep should never be told on /. (Karma suicide ensues)
  4. And look how modest they are by vicparedes · · Score: 5, Funny
    a Microsoft spokesman was quick to deny that they'd be so bold as to patent XML itself
    I feel much better now.
  5. Piano Teachers Unite! by joelparker · · Score: 5, Funny

    Can piano teachers please patent C# asap?

  6. Re:Microsoft has never used a patent offensively by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    But...but... its MICROSOFT. And this... this is SLASHDOT.

  7. unimaginable consequences by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny
    Next thing you know, someone'll patent the "A method for gas exchange by alternate inductions of overpressure and underpressure", aka "breathing".

    By your definition, it sounds as though the development and innovations that would make farting possible would be impeded, since there would be prior art.