I came across a post in Kevin Burton’s Feed Blog that actually revealed a shocking story about Apple trying to patent something that looks RSS.
The two patents in question deals with:-
a) Variable length posts that says;
In one embodiment, a user can modify how a feed is displayed, such as which content (and how much) is displayed, in what order, and how it is formatted. In another embodiment, a modification regarding how a feed is displayed is stored so that it can be used again at a later time.
b) Auto-discovery that says;
Techniques for detecting, managing, and presenting syndication XML (feeds) are disclosed. In one embodiment, a web browser automatically determines that a web site is publishing feeds and notifies the user, who can then access the feed easily. In another embodiment, a browser determines that a web page or feed is advertising relationship XML, and displays information about the people identified in the relationship XML.
Kevin writes that there is something rotten with the state of Denmark. Well, why only Denmark? Something is rotten in all countries where patenting is fast becoming a big business. In my post yesterday in CIO Central I wrote about some of the ridiculous patents Microsoft has got while giving the link to the list of patents Microsoft has been granted, and a comment by a reader said;
Software patents do not serve any point of optimism. They are often given to the incorrect holders. Many should not even exist. Because of these patents, many great projects, ideas, and developments are stalled
.....Software Patents should not exist.
That sums it up all. As far as Apple’s attempt to patent RSS goes, it should be thwarted immediately.
Thanks Feed Blog
