Despite being an integral part of many operating systems before Windows, the instinctive double click could soon become the exclusive property of Microsoft. It has paten what it has labelled 'a time-based hardware button for application code' in patent number 6,727,830, which, if you don't believe me; you can see for yourself at http://www.uspto.gov

The rest of the patent has been written in some jargon code, and refers to 'limited resource computing devices' (mice, in plain English), as well as 'opening an application if the application button is released before the expiration of a threshold time limit' (double clicking). A Microsoft mandarin said that 'Microsft would consider licensing it for others to use on commerically reasonable terms.

This is rather unacceptable, as how can you patent something so natural to users worldwide, and make a buck out of it. That's the Beast Of Redmond for you.

Actually, the terms "Limited Resource Computing Devices" refers to thinks like iPaqs and Palm-style organisers where there was not really such a thing as double click until Windows CE came out. You just don't need it in most circumstances, and so it referes to that.

I'm just trying to interpret Microsoft's pussy footing jargon. How can they just not tell you like it is. Anyway, it probably means that companies like Apple, Redhat, Sun etc will have to pay Microsoft just to be able to use a fundamental computing action.

No, it doesn't cover desktops/laptops since they are not a "Limited Resource" device. :) Though if you look at the fact that everything has a limit, you could interpret it that way.