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Microsoft Trying To Patent a 'Magic Wand'

theodp writes "Newly-disclosed USPTO documents show that Microsoft is seeking patent protection for a 'Magic Wand,' a device with various gizmos and sensors that can manipulate and interact with its environment, including video and holographic images, while using biometrics to connect with the user. 'Even the most pragmatic individual,' explains Microsoft, 'would have trouble arguing against the merits or utility of, say, a magic wand that actually worked to control or communicate with objects or components in an associated nearby environment.' No doubt. The inventors include CXO/CTO J Allard, and Sr. Researcher Andy Wilson."

12 of 157 comments (clear)

  1. The Doctor called... by DigitalSorceress · · Score: 5, Funny

    The Doctor called... He wants to have a word with them about his sonic screwdriver.

    --

    The Digital Sorceress
  2. Sure, they can patent a magic wand, by FlyingSquidStudios · · Score: 4, Funny

    but they still can't use it to make Vista disappear.

  3. Re:First result on search for "Magic Wand" by loutr · · Score: 3, Funny

    I think MS needs to rethink their naming. I doubt this is what they have in mind.

    Then again we're talking about the company whose CEO wants to squirt you pictures of his kids...

  4. Re:Vas Flam! by ozmanjusri · · Score: 5, Funny
    I have prior art, I was born with a magic wand!

    Yes?

    And do you put on your robe and wizard hat before you use it?

    --
    "I've got more toys than Teruhisa Kitahara."
  5. For what its worth... by rodney+dill · · Score: 4, Funny

    ... As long as it works by magic, and not technology, give 'em the patent.

    --

    Use your head, can't you, use your head,
    You're on earth, there's no cure for that
    - S. Beckett
  6. I see your shwartz is a big as mine... by genghisjahn · · Score: 3, Funny

    ...let's see how well you use it. And so began the great wand battle of '09 between MS and Nintendo.

    --
    Sorry about the mess.
  7. No thanks.. .. by Ozric · · Score: 3, Funny

    [quote]device that can manipulate and interact with its environment[/quote]

    I will stick with the katana .. it manupulates and interacts with the phyical enviroment very well.

    Does a good job on people with pesky magic wands too!

    No sensors or gizmos needed, and only effects what you point it.

    YMMV

  8. Re:First result on search for "Magic Wand" by Tablizer · · Score: 4, Funny

    I think MS needs to rethink their naming.

    Wandows?
       

  9. Re:Not new by cayenne8 · · Score: 4, Funny
    Microsoft's New Magic Wand Promo:

    "It's not the size of the wand...but, the MAGIC behind it!!

    --
    Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.........
  10. Meh by srussia · · Score: 4, Funny

    Probably just a stretched-out Clippy.

    --
    Set your phasers on "funky"!
  11. Did they need to wait for Clarke to die first? by Torodung · · Score: 5, Funny

    "Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic."

    And apparently, in their filing, Microsoft thinks that any sufficiently obvious idea is indistinguishable from innovation.

    --
    Toro

  12. Voldemort called.... by jollyreaper · · Score: 3, Funny

    He claims prior Dark Art.

    --
    Kwisatz Haderach
    Sell the spice to CHOAM
    This Mahdi took Shaddam's Throne