#Graphics / IFF /Etc.
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Correct me if I am wrong, but I though you could not patent ideas. In a
previous message John Foust mentions that Yamaha and (another co) paten make
that patented FM music sysnthesis. I don't know the exact patent but I am
sure they have patented their implementation -the circuit(s), etc. Unless
their's is the only way to make stereo FM, it doesn't seem that others can't
make use of the info. I think the issue with Apple is that most companies
don't want to take the chance that they will lose in court, especially since
there is not alot of precedent to go on. It is probably cheaper in the long
(and short) run to come to terms. I am personally against this approach. A
company should stand up for what is right and not let a someone bully them
into sharing profits — but then this is the real world, not a textbook. I
think the real danger, though, in giving in is that is does set a de facto
standard and eventually supresses creativity. Randy Weiner <<cbm>>