Digital Home Thoughts: Microsoft Patents the Double-Click

"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. "

We've seen Apple patent transparent windows and British Telecom try to patent hyperlinks, and now comes word that Microsoft has a patent on double clicks. I guess we can now let PARC know that they have missed out on another revenue stream. I personally see nothing wrong with this. Yea you read that! Why not let Microsoft and Apple protect themselves against small "startups"? I do agree this has all gotten out of hand, but if these are the rules, who can fault Microsoft for trying to protect themselves.