Microsoft Shut Down Again in MS Word Copyright Case

Microsoft had a busy day in court this past Thursday. First, it unsuccessfully lobbied to have an injunction related to patented XML features in its Word software overturned. In another case, Microsoft filed suit against a video game hardware producer whose game controllers look similar to the original Xbox 360 model.

Microsoft May be Mulling Supreme Court Appeal

In regard to the XML lawsuit: Microsoft failed in a bid to have a full appeals court review last year's decision that found the software company in violation of a patent owned by tiny Toronto, Canada-based i4i's patent. The patent covered select XML functions in Microsoft's very popular Word software, and the decision, which originally came down last summer, involved awarding millions to i4i.

Reports suggest Microsoft, which has received a series of setbacks in the case since the original decision, is still not through with the appeal process. It's rumored that the Redmond-based firm could next take the case to the Supreme Court.

"We're disappointed with the decision," admitted Microsoft spokesperson Kevin Kutz in a statement yesterday. "As far as next steps, we continue to believe there are important matters of patent law that still need to be properly addressed, and we are considering our options for going forward."

Meanwhile, i4i continues to emphasize its resolve to see the original decision through. "This has been a long and arduous process, but this decision is a powerful reinforcement of the message that smaller enterprises and inventors who own intellectual property can and will be protected," said company chairman Louden Owen. (Source: eweek.com)

Microsoft Sues Copycat Controller Company

In other legal news, Microsoft has filed suit against Datel, the maker of third-party video game peripherals, for building an Xbox 360 controller that Microsoft believes too closely resembles the original. Microsoft is seeking an injunction against Datel as well as monetary damages.

"We have a robust licensing program that ensures high standards and contributes to a great experience for the Xbox gamer community," Microsoft Spokesperson Kevin Kutz noted. "We have a responsibility to protect that program and the companies that are part of it, as well as our own intellectual property." (Source: cnet.com)