Apple Has iPod, but Microsoft has Bill Gates!

First we find out there's a new "must have" on the small singing devices market. Then, we find out it's called IPod, obviously I as in Apple. Then we all love its spectacular attributes and rush to buy it. Then Mr. Bill Gates finds out about the whole thing. Actually, I think he found out way before us, but that's not the point here. And then, we find out that he found out and that he decided it's his brand new toy, something like "Hey, I found it first! Finders, keeeepers!!". And finally, the whole thing blows out of proportions when the lawyers enter the room. Because Mr. Gates has no idea how to play nice.

The facts are: the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office have denied Apple's application to patent its method of using hierarchical menus to navigate through the IPod's contents. The basis for the denial: A similar method outlined in a Microsoft researcher's patent application, filed after the IPod was introduced but before Apple sought its own patent.

Apple's position on the matter?

In a statement dated 11th of August, Apple spokeswoman Natalie Kerris said the company "invented and publicly
released the IPod interface before the Microsoft patent application" cited by the patent office in its ruling. "Apple has received many patents for inventions related to IPod, and has many more patents pending," Kerris said. "The U.S. patent process is often a lengthy one, involving much back and forth with the U.S. patent office. Apple will continue to pursue this patent application, as well as the many others covering IPod innovations."
I think the lady has a point.

Microsoft's position on the matter?

''Regardless of the outcome, Microsoft doesn't intend to try to block Apple from the market'', said David Kaefer, business development director for Microsoft's intellectual property and licensing group. "We have a long-standing practice of licensing things to Apple and licensing Apple's patents to use in our products," Kaefer said. "Our approach is to recognize that, frankly, we're both mutually dependent on the good ideas of one another."
What's up with that?! You guys started the whole thing in the first place, remember??

Public opinion?

"It's incredibly embarrassing," said industry analyst Rob Enderle. "That just makes it look like someone at Apple wasn't on the ball in terms of filing the patent at the right time."
What does this whole situation mean in the end? It means Apple will almost certainly have to pay some royalties to Microsoft. The good news is that we all know where the money is heading to. In the end, to charity, of course! (The kids are getting scratch!)

On the other hand the outcome is still uncertain. Apple plans to appeal the ruling, and even if it's upheld, a Microsoft official pointed out that the two companies have a tradition of licensing patented technology to each other.Oh,come on, now you're telling' us??!! So, the two huge corporations could settle this even from the beginning over a nice, friendly dinner??!! Anyway, people, don't go anywhere, stick around till the fat lady sings!