Apple and Microsoft help form lobby group opposing attempts to kill software patents
Few would object to legislative attempts to stop patent trolls in their tracks. However, a host of companies are worried these efforts might go too far — enough so that they’ve formed their own US political lobby, the Partnership for American Innovation. The group, which includes tech giants Apple, GE, IBM and Microsoft, wants a “balanced” approach that reduces the volume of junk patents (and the resulting abuse) while letting companies file for software and biotech patents. The policy isn’t surprising when these firms are trying to protect their cash cows. However, it also pits the Partnership’s members squarely against firms like Netflix and Twitter, which argue that patents only get in the way. No matter what lawmakers do, it’s now clear that they’re going to get an earful from both sides.
Filed under: Cellphones, Misc, Internet, Apple, Microsoft
Via: Reuters
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