Related link: http://zdnet.com.com/2102-1106-884681.html
In an article titled “IBM drops patent bombshell“, ZDNet writer David Berlind notes the appearance of IBM patents on the previously unencumbered ebXML specification - a project of OASIS and the United Nations. Responses to the announcement don’t seem particularly happy.
(IBM later claimed to retract this, but see the followup story for more.)
Aren’t patents a wonderful way to encourage innovation across developer communities?
IBM pulls back
Some damage may already have been done to ebXML's reputation (and perhaps IBM's), but IBM has changed its position to royalty-free for the ebXML patents.