Hi All,
See the article here: http://www.nzherald.co.nz/index.cfm?c_id=5&ObjectID=10115247 for more info.
I just sent an email to IPONZ. I recommend you all do the same if you can! The one I sent is below for reference.
Cheers
Jason ===========================================
-------- Original Message -------- Subject: Patent Application Objection Date: Tue, 15 Mar 2005 14:57:30 +1300 From: Flashcards Team <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing in regards to Patent 525484, submitted by Microsoft Corporation.
As a business owner and computer (Linux) user, I vehemently reject the concept of software patents for a variety of reasons. I also support and use Open Source Software wherever possible. Be that as it may, I realise that IPONZ currently accepts applications for software patents in a number of circumstances.
I object to the above mentioned patent on the grounds that there exists prior art and that the whole idea of XML, is interoperability, which Microsoft is trying to subvert for its own financial gain. I understand from recent news articles that IPONS is overworked and understaffed/funded. I would hate this to lead to the allowance of patents that are plainly obvious to any programmer anywhere. Many of these are also simply standard programming practices that Microsoft are trying to patent and hold for ransom.
Please do not allow them to add to their arsenal that has allowed them to become a PROVEN and CONVICTED illegal monopolist. Please do not allow patent 525484 to be accepted/upheld.
For further reference on this issue, please see the NZ Herald Article here: http://www.nzherald.co.nz/index.cfm?c_id=5&ObjectID=10115247
Thank you for your time and attention in this matter.
Kind Regards,
Jason Greenwood Co-Director/Owner MRS Technologies Ltd
