I think before the robots take over everything and use us for batteries, it will appear that humans have hyper-evolved into mechanically enhanced super-sapiens. But that’s really just to build false confidence in us. A recent Microsoft patent application is perhaps the next step toward that digitally created human battery soup dream.
Northeastern Sues Google Over Search Patent
Northeastern University has sued Google in the patent-friendly federal court for the Eastern District of Texas, accusing the search giant of infringing upon its work.
Microsoft Tries To Patent Conversational Closers
Can’t be bothered to type “goodbye” at the end of IM conversation? That’s okay – Microsoft wants to do it for you. The real kicker, though, is that Microsoft also wants to patent this practice.
Amazon 1-Click Patent Zeroed Out
The long-running battle between Amazon.com and a New Zealand movie technician over Amazon’s 1-Click patent not only turned out poorly for Amazon, but a twist at the end mentioned why a prominent figure in the tech industry may have decided to back off from fighting this battle.
Google Patent Moves It Closer To GoogleNet
A mobile datacenter patent has been issued to Google based on its December 2003 filing, giving the company a technology similar to that of Sun’s Project Blackbox.
Patent Suit Hits Google, AOL, Microsoft, Yahoo
Performance Pricing alleges in a federal lawsuit that the four Internet players they have sued infringe on a patent the company holds, in relation to paid search advertising.
Patent Examination Goes Social
There is little doubt that patents are driving innovation. However, those same patents can hinder the progress if applied incorrectly.
Customized Ordering Gets Customized Patent Suits
Hyundai, Reebok, Puma, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Michelin are all being sued by the same company for patent infringement. The patent involves technology that allows customers to customize products on the companies’ websites. But it’s not just the scale of the suit that will get attention, but also the timing, and who’s bringing it.
Google Calls For Patent Reform
Google is throwing its weight behind the Patent Reform Act, expected to come to a vote in the House of Representatives later this week. The company feels excessive patent litigation is a drag on the free market.
Google Challenged On Patent Reform Stance
The latest contribution to the Google Public Policy blog, on the topic of patent reform and Google’s stance, received a pointed rebuttal from a Brookings Institution guest scholar.