Microsoft is trying to prevent the public from using the descriptive English word 'windows' which has had meaning in the computer industry for years prior to Microsoft's use. Companies like Xerox, DEC, and Apple used the term for years. Not until 1983 did Microsoft start using it. They waited 7 years before filing a trademark application in 1990. The US Patent and Trademark Office rejected their application because 'windows' was a generic word.
We hired an independent marketing company to conduct a survey, asking over 14,000 likely buyers to participate. The results revealed that not even a SINGLE respondent was confused between Microsoft's programs and LindowsOS. Microsoft offered no expert testimony and did no surveys.
The next step is a court hearing February 27th where the judge will hear our oral arguments. We want to focus on building our product, not fighting in court, but we also think it's important to stand up to the bully on the first playground encounter.
Michael Robertson, CEO Lindows.com
