Software patents in Europe 1678

But none of the current patents ARE valid... They would have to be applied for IN EUROPE, but the moment they did apply for them, everyone and his dog could cry "PRIOR ART!" or "THAT'S AN OBVIOUS SOLUTION REQUIRING NO INNOVATIVE THOUGHT!"

As I said, the EU patent offices aren't likely to be walkovers like the USPTO is.

Like, say, IBM... Microsoft wouldn't DARE try to sue linux for patent infringement cos IBM own one hell of a lot of patents that microsoft use without license...

And IBM have stated that anyone using their patented technology whilst at the same time suing linux for patent infringement will get a ton of bricks dropped on them.

I know, I'm hardly arguing FOR software patents... I'm just doubting there'll be lawsuits the moment it goes through (god forbid) whilst at the same time hoping the EU patent offices ARE more strict than the US one -- What to do if you find yourself stuck in a crack can't move, with no hope of rescue. Andrew Halliwell BSc(hons)Consider how lucky you are that life has been in good to you so far... Computer Science -The BOOK, Hitch-hiker's guide to the galaxy.