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Microsoft Threatened With Fines By EU Again
ukhackster writes "The EC is threatening Microsoft with yet more fines. This time, it's over the interoperability protocols that Microsoft has been ordered to open up to its rivals. The EC has examined 1,500 pages of information about the protocols, and concluded that they 'lack significant innovation'. This is pretty damning for both Microsoft and the patent system, as it has been awarded 36 patents covering this technology and has another 37 pending. Could this encourage someone like the EFF to start pushing to get these patents overturned? The EU has a FAQ about this issue, containing additional details on the subject.
The EC has examined 1,500 pages of information about the protocols, and concluded that they 'lack significant innovation'.
Microsoft's patent number 6,727,830, "Time based hardware button for application launch," issued on April 27, 2004:
A method and system are provided for extending the functionality of application buttons on a limited resource computing device. Alternative application functions are launched based on the length of time an application button is pressed. 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.
Wooooo, innovative! In other words, Microsoft just patented the method by which a windows manager will select an icon if you single click it, but launch the application associated with the icon if you double-click it. All your WMs belong to Redmond.
Software is no more than mathematics.
An mathematics is a mental process.
As soon as you allow patents of software you allow patents on thought itself.
thank God the internet isn't a human right.