The Internet Association Lauds Inaugural Software Patent Reform Roundtable

Encourages clear software patent standards

WASHINGTON, D. C. – The Internet Association, the D.C. based trade organization representing the interests of leading Internet companies issued the following statement on the U.S. Patent and Trademark office’s software patent reform roundtable:

“The Internet Association applauds the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s initiative in partnering with the software industry by hosting a roundtable on software patent reform.  Many software patents suffer from a lack of specificity, with claims that are often vague and overbroad.  This uncertainty fuels the existence of opportunistic and costly patent litigation that burdens large companies and start-ups alike.  The establishment of clear boundaries for patent claims is critical to promoting creativity and innovation in the Internet industry, leading to continued job growth.  We hope that today’s inaugural roundtable will encourage a fruitful discussion that ultimately yields clear standards for software patents.”

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