I see Microsoft has taken the gloves off in the Open Source/Closed Source battle. Surprise, Surprise they found the infringing patents in the three areas where Microsoft makes most of its revenue, operating systems, Office and the Windows user interface.
But he does break down the total number allegedly violated – 235 – into categories. He says that the Linux kernel – the deepest layer of the free operating system, which interacts most directly with the computer hardware – violates 42 Microsoft patents. The Linux graphical user interfaces – essentially, the way design elements like menus and toolbars are set up – run afoul of another 65, he claims. The Open Office suite of programs, which is analogous to Microsoft Office, infringes 45 more. E-mail programs infringe 15, while other assorted FOSS programs allegedly transgress 68.
Watching this from the sidelines is gonna be a hoot.
Addendum: Of course the real reason for this may to head off the new version of the GPL at the pass.
Copacetic 