Re: Time based hardware button ...

[Bernard Lang <Bernard.Lang@inria.fr>]

* Erik Josefsson <ehj@cleosan.com>, le 17-08-04, a écrit:
> Magosányi Árpád wrote:
> >Hi!
> >
> >There are some statements which I should do something with:
> >
> >1.
> >The United States Patent  6,727,830 is not about mouse doubleclick,
> >but about function keys of mobile computing devices.
> 
> "Time based hardware button for application launch"
> http://l2.espacenet.com/espacenet/viewer?PN=US6727830&CY=gb&LG=en&DB=EPD


Thanks  ...

A method and system are provided for extending the functionality of
application buttons on a limited resource computing
device. Alternative application functions are launched based on the
length of time an application button is pressed. A default function
for an application is launched if the button is pressed for a short,
i.e., normal, period of time. An alternative function of the
application is launched if the button is pressed for a long, (e.g., at
least one second), period of time. Still another function can be
launched if the application button is pressed multiple times within a
short period of time, e.g., double click



I have not read the patent, but this abstract gave me a feeling of
déjà vu.  Especially because of the specification "application buttons
on a limited resource computing device".

It took me some time to identify the origin of that feeling... very
frustrating.  Then I got it : my wristwatch.  I have had it for
several years (though it just died ... did not enjoy windsurfing, even
though supposed to resist immersion).  It certainly was "a limited
resource computing device" (even more so now, but that another issue
:-)

Now, of course, Microsoft could have a different implementation of the
functionality, but is that the case ?  What is new about the MS patent?

As far as I know, double clicks and long clicks have been used for a
long time on wristwatches.  What is original with the Microsoft patent ?

Bernard