Apple Patents a Paper Bag (theguardian.com)

mspohr writes: Continuing its leadership in innovation, Apple has patented a paper bag. We all remember the groundbreaking "rounded corners" innovation, now we have a paper bag! Just try to make your own paper bag and you'll be speaking with Apple lawyers. (Note: In fairness to Apple, this is a "special" paper bag which is stronger due to numerous improvements on your ordinary recycled paper bag -- just don't try to copy it.) The patent application summarizes the bag as follows: "A paper bag is disclosed. The paper bag may include a bag container formed of white solid bleached sulfate paper with at least 60% post-consumer content." Apple's patented paper bags are designed to be sturdy, while remaining "both pearly white and environmentally friendly." Let's just hope they don't remove the handles...

Comments

If you put it that way...

[blindseer]

Anything sounds absurd if worded the right way. Examples:

Alexander Bell patents talking to a wire.

Henry Ford builds a mechanical horse.

Wright Brothers claim wood and fabric allow a man to float through the air.

Americans fly Eagle to the moon.

Saying that Apple patented a paper bag is so missing the point that it's bound to be mocked. If one actually reads the linked article (I know, this is Slashdot) then it becomes clear how the title is almost certainly intended to be misleading.

Is it so hard to come up with something that wouldn't be so laughable? How about, "Apple Patents New Ideas on Humble Paper Bag"?

Re:Amazing example of Slashdot wasted time

[polyp2000]

"Hard to imagine so many people with so little to do to make the world a better place" ... And patenting an "environmentally friendly" paper bag does exactly what? Apple (tm) - making it harder for others to look after the planet ?