Microsoft Calls for Reforms to the U.S. Patent System
Brad Smith who is Microsoft’s General Counsel has finally become more vocal around patent reform and the need to evolve the system.
He highlights a few of the metrics on Microsoft’s patent process including the fact that they spend close to $100 million annually to deal with patent lawsuits. My personal opinion that is just an indication of the challenges that are coming and that number will raise dramatically in the coming years if action is not taken. The harsh reality of that is the impact on smaller players that don’t have the Microsoft bankroll to deal with the costs.
Among his suggested reform included either free or subsidized cost of patent application for small businesses. I propose we go a step further, I think that larger patent applicants should bear the cost of establishment of a fund to promote innovation by the smaller non patented inventors. By setting aside a portion of fees from the larger applications, first time patent applicants should after a brief qualification process have access to the legal help necessary to complete the patent process. This would include legal counsel help, as it is really not feasible to navigate the current patent waters with out the guidance.
While I don’t agree 100% with all of Brad’s thoughts, I’m glad to see some of the larger players in the patent parade stepping up and admitting that change needs to happen.
You can read more about Brad’s comments here.