Microsoft’s Patent on Restricting Functionality Of Your PC

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Microsoft just received a patent on restricting functionality of your PC by making selected portions and functions of the operating system unavailable to the user or his ability to add applications and drivers until they pay up.

A client computer runs an operating system that executes additional applications by loading them using an application loader and executes device drivers for peripheral devices by loading the drivers using a device loader. The operating system restricts the functionality of the operating system, such as by making selected portions and functionality of the operating system unavailable to the user or by limiting the user's ability to add software applications or device drivers to the computer. Additionally, various techniques can be used to remove or reduce the functionality limitations of the computer.
 
Patenting a lack of functionality. Wow, so you can patent a negative now. Whats next, file a patent for NOT having a 3d interface?
 
Lets suppose this leads to the consumer(s) having to purchase unnecessary software or files needed to operate a specific program. Lets suppose that these programs simply will not work unless we pay a 3rd party (Microsoft) to allow us to use them without reducing the functionality of the operating system.

I don't like sound of this.
 
Funny, I would've thought that that would be obvious (not able to patent), like sending a guy to go break someone's legs if they didn't "pay up." If this is Microsoft's idea of "innovation," then this is not a sign of good things to come. I would've though long time windows users would be used to a broken and "reduced functionality" operating system anyway.
 
Wow, Microsoft is going to make a lot of money suing Ransomware Virus writers on that one :rollseyes:
 
I'm pretty sure this tech applies to those running illegitimate copies of Windows. No need for the tin foil hats here! :p
 
I read this as Microsoft patenting what Vista already does. Reducing functionality of the OS until you activate (IE:"pay up").

I don't know what all the previous replies think this might be. From what I gather by your responses, you all think it's something else than what I just said.
 
I'm pretty sure this tech applies to those running illegitimate copies of Windows. No need for the tin foil hats here! :p

but the problem is, if someone at microsoft screws up + winds up adding a * or something to the list of machines that have "reduced functionality" then suddently thousands, or millions of folks across the country (who have a legitimate copy) are then screwed... This type of crap should not be written at all...
 
Lets suppose this leads to the consumer(s) having to purchase unnecessary software or files needed to operate a specific program. Lets suppose that these programs simply will not work unless we pay a 3rd party (Microsoft) to allow us to use them without reducing the functionality of the operating system.

I don't like sound of this.

Funny, I would've thought that that would be obvious (not able to patent), like sending a guy to go break someone's legs if they didn't "pay up." If this is Microsoft's idea of "innovation," then this is not a sign of good things to come. I would've though long time windows users would be used to a broken and "reduced functionality" operating system anyway.

Wow, Microsoft is going to make a lot of money suing Ransomware Virus writers on that one :rollseyes:
You guys are all overreacting. Microsoft has offered various versions of OSes since XP, which is esstially locking you out of features. At that time thought it was seperate installations. They are probably moving towards installing 1 OS installation but having different versions unlocked. For example, you just install Windows Ultimate, but since you payed for Premium that's what you have access too. It actually makes things easier. It's the same technology used in Vista and 7, they just now have a patent.

Just because they now have the patent for it, doesn't mean it has stopped them from doing 'lockouts' in the past. If they wanted to blackmail you into buying applications or additional functionality they would have done it by now with Vista.

You're making it out to be when you open a program a box pops up to put in a credit card number. :rolleyes:
 
I'm pretty sure this tech applies to those running illegitimate copies of Windows. No need for the tin foil hats here! :p

but the problem is, if someone at microsoft screws up + winds up adding a * or something to the list of machines that have "reduced functionality" then suddently thousands, or millions of folks across the country (who have a legitimate copy) are then screwed... This type of crap should not be written at all...

I thought he said to take off the tinfoil?
 
but the problem is, if someone at microsoft screws up + winds up adding a * or something to the list of machines that have "reduced functionality" then suddently thousands, or millions of folks across the country (who have a legitimate copy) are then screwed... This type of crap should not be written at all...

We can only hope they keep a tight reign on this. It would cost them a lot of money if they messed it up, so hopefully they've got the common sense to pay attention.
 
You guys are all overreacting. Microsoft has offered various versions of OSes since XP, which is esstially locking you out of features. At that time thought it was seperate installations. They are probably moving towards installing 1 OS installation but having different versions unlocked. For example, you just install Windows Ultimate, but since you payed for Premium that's what you have access too. It actually makes things easier. It's the same technology used in Vista and 7, they just now have a patent.

Just because they now have the patent for it, doesn't mean it has stopped them from doing 'lockouts' in the past. If they wanted to blackmail you into buying applications or additional functionality they would have done it by now with Vista.

You're making it out to be when you open a program a box pops up to put in a credit card number. :rolleyes:

That is exactly how I interpreted this as well. They already do this today with an un-activated version of Vista, that is past the 30 day activation window. NOw, they simply have a patent on this concept.
 
I've read the patent.

Here's the scenario:

Johnny wants to buy a new PC. He goes to the local brick-and-mortar and looks at the selection.

PC1 costs $500. PC1 is what Microsoft considers a "sealed" PC.
PC2 costs $700. PC2 is what Microsoft considers an "unsealed" PC.

PC1 and PC2 have the EXACT same hardware configuration.

A sealed PC is locked into only the devices and software preinstalled on the computer. Johnny still has full functionality with PC1, but if he wants to install any new hardware or software, he must "unseal" PC1 for an extra $250. The unsealing process is done through the computer manufacturer.

So, according to Johnny, PC1 is a great bargain at the beginning. Assuming he has no other need to install any new devices or software, Johnny will not need to fork out an extra $250 to unseal the PC.

Assuming Johnny knows at the time of PC purchase that for a fact that he will be installing new programs, he has the option of buying PC2 outright.



That's Microsoft's patent in a nutshell.
 
"Sealed computer 232 includes various software applications and device drivers for a general purpose open architecture operating system. However, additional software applications and device drivers cannot be added to the computer 232, thereby "sealing" the computer and restricting it to executing only specified software applications and device drivers.

The sealing of computer 232 ensures that consumer 236 is limited to executing only specific applications and device drivers (e.g., only those applications that are installed on computer 232 by vendor/OEM 234 and included on computer 232 at the time it is distributed to consumer 236). By preventing additional device drivers from being installed on computer 232, consumer 236 is further prevented from adding any additional peripheral devices (which would require an additional device driver(s)) to computer 232."


There's the explanation.
 
A sealed PC is locked into only the devices and software preinstalled on the computer. Johnny still has full functionality with PC1, but if he wants to install any new hardware or software, he must "unseal" PC1 for an extra $250. The unsealing process is done through the computer manufacturer.

Uh, who buys a computer with the notion of not installing any software? If this is how it really is going to be, then it's a bunch of bullshit. :mad:

However, I feel like this is really implausible since it makes no logical sense at all.
 
This sounds like they are going to be rolling out a modular OS in the near future.....
 
Uh, who buys a computer with the notion of not installing any software?

Most of planet earth. They buy a Dell that comes with Vista, Office, Internet Explorer, and Norton Antivirus, and they are perfectly content. I daresay this patent will amazingly cut down on the amount of stupid software and IE toolbars that malware companies shovel out.

Of course, there's also the flip side: "this PC came with Internet Explorer and is locked from installing Firefox!" Uh-oh, I can already hear the EU licking their chops. :p
 
They're "consolizing" them until you decide you want to install a new device or application, then you fork out money to "un-consolize" it.

The only use I could think of for something like this would be an office enviroment or maybe a library.
 
Modular operating system. I like it.

Now only if they show what the price differences will be.


People can be all up in arms about this, but what if the "Sealed" edition was $25 and the "unsealed" was say $125, not a bad trade up for those who simply needs a system just to get online or do basic functionallity.

Depending on the price, I may buy the sealed edition for people who just do basic things, this will at least get them a system for cheap and a modern operating system.

Lastly, I'm assuming that this sealed edition is going to allow ms products to be installed like office, since microsoft will be making money on that. The only concern is that this is going to open a huge lawsuit because you know it will block everything other than microsoft games and products.
 
It's AMAZING that Microsoft is spending so much time trying to restrict us from using our PCs and bleeding us dry instead of making Windows work properly. Absolutely AMAZING.
 
Meanwhile Linux improves more and more each day. If Microsoft does anything stupid it's going to be easy this time for me to switch to Ubuntu and never look back.
 
Cash registers, kiosks, ATMs, public access computers at libraries, most corp computers. All of those would normally fall under no changes in hardware during the device lifetime.
 
Let the Micro$oft circle jerk begin. If Apple was filing this patent this place would be gathering pitch forks.

More proprietary bullshit from Microsoft.
 
are my User Names Patented as well ? sheesh...the things that get attention and money.
 
It's AMAZING that Microsoft is spending so much time trying to restrict us from using our PCs and bleeding us dry instead of making Windows work properly. Absolutely AMAZING.

Whats wrong with Windows?

Meanwhile Linux improves more and more each day. If Microsoft does anything stupid it's going to be easy this time for me to switch to Ubuntu and never look back.

Linux is improving, but this wont chase MS customers away, in fact, it might draw more customers coming from linux or other free os software suites because of the cheap adoption price.

Cash registers, kiosks, ATMs, public access computers at libraries, most corp computers. All of those would normally fall under no changes in hardware during the device lifetime.

Yep, another good example.

Let the Micro$oft circle jerk begin. If Apple was filing this patent this place would be gathering pitch forks.

More proprietary bullshit from Microsoft.

I find it funny you mention Apple, they have been doing this for ages.
 
Its simple truth and Microsoft is big monopoly that needs linux to take a big bite out of them. Just matter of time. Why not make a operating system 100% error free. Instead releasing more OS's. Just about more features forget about fixxing previous problems. Get quantity but not neccesarily quality and stability.
 
Most of planet earth. They buy a Dell that comes with Vista, Office, Internet Explorer, and Norton Antivirus, and they are perfectly content.

Really? Because it seems like most people want to do more with their computer than browse the Internet.

Also, this is nothing to say of the hardware driver restrictions. What happens when someone wants to install their shiny new digital camera software/drivers? Or even a printer?
 
Also, this is nothing to say of the hardware driver restrictions. What happens when someone wants to install their shiny new digital camera software/drivers? Or even a printer?

I have a feeling Microsoft will allow sime devices such as those to be installed, whereas installing a new video card, processor, or other "specialized" device will be restricted.
 
why is everyone up in arms? none of this would apply to anyone on this board lol

it sounds like they're trying to go the apple route for certain manufacturers. If you buy an emachine, for instance, it could have windows locked down to run specifically with that hardware configuration and eliminating the ability to install it on your dell or custom machine (or smartphone/MID).

While I wouldn't buy it personally, I can see why a lot of people would if it's saving them a decent chunk of money. It doesnt specifically say it, but I'm pretty sure when they say "software" they're referring to device drivers
 
Its simple truth and Microsoft is big monopoly that needs linux to take a big bite out of them. Just matter of time. Why not make a operating system 100% error free. Instead releasing more OS's. Just about more features forget about fixxing previous problems. Get quantity but not neccesarily quality and stability.

Nothing is 100% bug free. This is a Utopian belief that everyone including myself could only dream for.
 
well you have micro transactions for games, so your gonna get micro transactions in your face for your OS now. Nothing to do with piracy. Microsoft talked about this a few years ago at a "pay as you go" type scenario. In the grand scheme of things your renting the OS your using with this type of setup. Whos excited about it? Probably not a whole lot of folks.
 
Nothing as complex as an operating system is 100% bug free. This is a Utopian belief that everyone including myself could only dream for.

Fixed for accuracy. :cool: I'm pretty sure some tiny little program that you code yourself could easily be bug-free.

But 99% of the time in the coding world, yes, it is a Utopian dream.
 
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