News
Apple loses iPod patent because of Microsoft?
Apple may have lost its attempt to patent the iPod software interface because long-time rival Microsoft had already filed a similar application. Bloomberg News reports that Microsoft’s patent application was filed with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office five months before Apple’s request, which was rejected last month.
“Apple plans to appeal the decision to ensure it won’t be forced to pay royalties to Microsoft on every iPod sale,” Bloomberg reports. “The decision could be a setback for Apple, which is also facing increased competition from Microsoft, which makes software for rival music players, and other companies that want to take market share.”
Apple spokeswoman Natalie Kerris said that Apple will continue to pursue the iPod patent. “Apple invented and publicly released the iPod interface before the Microsoft patent application cited by the examiner was filed,� Kerris said. “The U.S. patent process is often a lengthy one, involving much back and forth. Apple will continue to pursue this patent application.�
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21
It’s called business. If Apple was a little faster, maybe they’d have the patent. But MS beat them to it. See what Apple biased people don’t realize is that MS have smart BUSINESS people working there as well as tech. Apple needs to learn from this instead of complain about it.
Posted by Smitty on August 12, 2005 at 7:36 AM (PDT)
22
*agrees with Smitty* It’s just biz… It was a good biz decision on Microsoft’s side (not that I like it).
Posted by Jing in USA/Singapore on August 12, 2005 at 9:54 AM (PDT)
23
Apple should have done there homework before they filed,they should have known what there competition is doing and /or has done they should have went back to the drawing board where not talking widgets here APPLE should know this is big bucks no wonder APPLE goes up , comes down etc.
Posted by marty on August 13, 2005 at 7:20 PM (PDT)
24
i dont care either way. and i still want an ipod.
Posted by what? on August 14, 2005 at 12:18 AM (PDT)
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