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Microsoft Pockets Patent for Encouraging TV Viewing

Posted by CowboyNeal on from the you-know-you-want-to dept.

theodp writes "Through its WebTV unit, Microsoft was awarded a patent Tuesday for a system and method for encouraging viewers to watch television programs, such as offering viewers frequent-flier miles for identifying the name of a sponsor or the color of an announcer's shirt. In other news, Microsoft took a District Court to task for failing to recognize the existence of prior art for the Eolas web plug-in patent, resulting in a $521 million judgment against the software giant."

1 of 266 comments (clear)

  1. Re:Positive Anger Management by Mike+Hawk · · Score: 0, Flamebait

    Yeah, I downloaded that GIMP photoshop clone, but it had some weird licensing scheme that required me to give up some rights if I created derivative works from the program. Since all I intended to do was use the program to create derivative works I deleted it immediately. I wonder if it is any good. Oh well, at least I know for certain I am free to do whatever I wish with my free copy of MS Paint.

    You are right though, it was a positive experience to see how the other half fools itself into thinking it has it better. I've never felt angry at Microsoft. Are you sure you aren't just projecting?