Yes, Apple has already threatened both Android and WebOS (Pre) with patents. We’ve begun taking Apple’s threat more seriously. I’m disappointed to see other “Linux” sites defending Apple.

For example, with dotnet applications, significant leverage lies in Microsoft’s corner. Apple would be forced to lose significant leverage if they had to go against a company with so many patents that would apply.

And, of course, Apple *is* playing the patent card to help themselves gain competitive points over rivals (injunctions or at least royalties). Not only can they lose if they have to yield significant money per device to an inferior competitor (and it’s always more profitable to gain instead), but having injunctions against what may end up being popular apps would really hurt their platform.

…and they want to have as much control as possible over the topmost layers of API being used to code the apps. Eventually, they will add enough layers. Eventually, they will want to leverage the iphone and other devices to help make the Mac platform the largest and seize control of the monopoly driver’s seat from Microsoft.

…and they fear Google. Any advantages they can preserve (eg, with patenting), they will take.

Also, I think they might be trying to fight dotnet, java, etc growth which would otherwise help some of their rivals.

Apple can get away with this because their platform is not intended to appeal to millions of in-house developers (at least not at this point in time). They can focus on a smaller group with a greater level of experience and understanding.