* Microsoft Wins Patent for Software Industry Monopolization Redmond, WA - Microsoft Corporation today announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) has officially awarded the company Patent No. 7,543,332, entitled "Method of Monopolizing a Software Industry." The patent, filed in 1995, covers the development of operating systems and desktop applications that render users helplessly dependent upon flawed yet ubiquitous software platforms. "Microsoft has been a leader and an innovator in this field for years," said Ari Ukidingme, a spokesman for the software giant. "We figured - Hey, why not use it to get a legal monopoly?" Microsoft says it has no plans to sue on the patent at present but has entered into licensing negotiations with SCO over its Linux-related activities. -- Duaine Hechler Piano, Player Piano, Organ, Pump Organ Tuning, Servicing & Rebuilding Associate Member of the Piano Technicians Guild Reed Organ Society Member St. Louis, MO 63034 (314) 838-5587 dahechler@charter.net
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