MS has to know that this is both stupid and invalid. But they also know that it will be yet another weapon they can threaten people and companies with if it passes.

They are trying to build up their portfolio so they can pull IBM's old manuver of pulling out an endless stream of patents. Yes, most of them are questionable or obviously invalid. But if they can pull out dozens or hundreds of patents you would have to challenge individually in court, you have no choice but to fold.

Jay