MESSAGE
| DATE | 2008-01-20 |
| FROM | Ruben Safir
|
| SUBJECT | Subject: [NYLXS - HANGOUT] Coming Patent Wars
|
Ever since Microsoft announced that Linux may violate up to 228 patents,
it has enjoyed sweet deals from companies looking to avoid lawsuits.
JVC is the most recent to seek such a deal. Microsoft just announced an
expansion of “the relationship between JVC and Microsoft to promote
the exchange of valuable information and the incorporation of patented
technologies in their respective products.,†according to a company
press release.
Typically, healthy businesses focus on providing value for customers
through innovation and new products. But, Microsoft has discovered an
easier way: attack companies not using Windows XP or Vista with a stuffed
patent portfolio.
Ironically, that may be a better way to make money than trying to improve
and remarket Windows Vista.
Microsoft refuses to identify which patents Linux may violate, and that
provides a blanket threat for any company using the open source OS,
including JVC. At this point it’s speculation that this deal addresses
Linux specifically, but an elephant in the room is hard to ignore.
Also, Microsoft mentions “the agreement covers a broad range of consumer
products each company manufactures and sells. Although the contents of
the agreement, including the specific financial terms, are confidential,
the parties indicated that Microsoft is being compensated by JVC.â€
No innovation here, but plenty of cash.
Of course, from Microsoft’s perspective “the licensing agreement is
another example of the important role intellectual property (IP) plays
in ensuring a healthy and vibrant IT ecosystem. Since Microsoft launched
its IP licensing program in December 2003, the company has entered into
more than 200 licensing agreements and continues to develop programs
that make it possible for customers, partners and competitors to access
its IP portfolio.â€
--
http://www.mrbrklyn.com - Interesting Stuff
http://www.nylxs.com - Leadership Development in Free Software
So many immigrant groups have swept through our town that Brooklyn, like Atlantis, reaches mythological proportions in the mind of the world - RI Safir 1998
http://fairuse.nylxs.com DRM is THEFT - We are the STAKEHOLDERS - RI Safir 2002
"Yeah - I write Free Software...so SUE ME"
"The tremendous problem we face is that we are becoming sharecroppers to our own cultural heritage -- we need the ability to participate in our own society."
"> I'm an engineer. I choose the best tool for the job, politics be damned.<
You must be a stupid engineer then, because politcs and technology have been attached at the hip since the 1st dynasty in Ancient Egypt. I guess you missed that one."
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