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United Video Properties Nabs TV Playlist Patent

Posted by timothy on from the thanks-uspto-you-rock dept.

spinozaq writes "It seems that an organization called 'United Video Properties, Inc.' has been granted patent #6,748,596, titled 'Program guide system for recording television programs.' IANAPL, but this document seems to cover too much ground, talking about pay programs and PIN numbers for parental controls. Maybe they'll sue TiVo, oh hurray."

2 of 7 comments (clear)

  1. Sad State of Patents in the US by Goyuix · · Score: 4, Interesting

    You know, as a member of our capitalist society, I certainly appreciate laws that allow me to protect my work (be it the GPL or something else) - but honestly it seems like ridiculous patent after ridiculous patent seem to be pouring through the office.

    While I think patents can be a reasonable thing - there is rampant abuse of the system and really no way for public comment. Why on earth should I trust an office full of overworked and eternally swamped clerks to give such broad legal rights out? Seriously, if the end of capitalism is coming it seems fairly clear that litigation will be the vehicle and patents their fuel.

  2. Prior Art Discovered!! by ObsessiveMathsFreak · · Score: 2, Interesting

    Sorry guys. Looks like Sky+ beat you to it.

    Oh yeah and videoplus/VCR+ too. If fact people giving their techhie kids clear instructions on what to tape, for when they go on holidays have also beaten you too it.

    What's that you say? It uses a computer?!
    Oh well in that case of course you can patent it. Don't forget to file a patent for "Displaying images using a computer controlled device" and "Use of a software controlled device to add two numbers"

    Remember here at the US Patent office the old dirty word is Common Sence.

    --
    May the Maths Be with you!