Microsoft Receives Patent For Double-Click

kaluta writes "The Sydney Morning Herald is reporting that Microsoft was granted a patent for double-clicking on April 27. The patent in question is 6,727,830 and says, amongst other stuff: 'A default function for an application is launched if the button is pressed for a short, i.e., normal, period of time. An alternative function of the application is launched if the button is pressed for a long, (e.g., at least one second), period of time. Still another function can be launched if the application button is pressed multiple times within a short period of time, e.g., double click'. So this is what we have to look foward to in the E.U. now?"

Comments

Re:For the millionth time...

[the_mad_poster]

I agree, but the story isn't about the lousy patent process, it's about this patent and the response is, typicaly, reactionary and baseless. I wish Slashdot submitters would at least maintain a modicum of decency with this sort of story and not go jumping into irrational hissy fits in their write ups.

Of course... if Slashdot's editors... you know... edited things, this might not be such a problem (but I wouldn't hold my breath).

You wish!

[Trejkaz]

You wish every other app could do it. Firefox sure as hell can't!

Re:April Fool's

[AstroDrabb]

Well the intent of the patent is for use with PocketPC PDA's. The patent is simply launching different application behaviors based on how the application is launched. Patents have been granted for less.

Ahhh, a Microsoft apologist! I guess you speak officially for Microsoft? You are assuring everyone that MS will _never_ use this bogus patent to stop competition? No, not Microsoft, never!