Microsoft Threatens Patent War Against Open Source Software

From a feature in Fortune last week, by Roger Parloff:

So if Microsoft ever sued Linux distributor Red Hat for patent infringement, for instance, OIN might sue Microsoft in retaliation, trying to enjoin distribution of Windows. It’s a cold war, and what keeps the peace is the threat of mutually assured destruction: patent Armageddon — an unending series of suits and countersuits that would hobble the industry and its customers.

Or, as Tim Bray says, “Litigate or shut up.”

★ Tuesday, 22 May 2007