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June 13, 2006
My point exactly
This is why software patents are stupid:
In an April lawsuit, Netflix accused Blockbuster of starting its online service in 2004 despite knowing that the service infringed a Netflix patent."There is nothing original about renting movies or subscription rental programs," Blockbuster lawyer Marshall Grossman said, noting both were widely practiced long before any such invention by Netflix.
"(That is) like a fast-food restaurant trying to patent selling hamburgers through a drive-through window," he added.
The claims filed by Blockbuster against Netflix also allege that Netflix failed to inform the Patent Office of previous patents and previous business methods of other companies. Blockbuster said Netflix has admitted that it was aware of the prior patents of another company, which had already put Netflix on notice about possible patent infringement.
Responding to Blockbuster's charges, Netflix spokesman Steve Swasey said the company has filed its claims on the matter and will vigorously defend its patents.
"It is up to the courts to decide," he said.
Posted by Mike at June 13, 2006 08:17 PM
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