Microsoft WORD has a problem. It is not going to crash your computer or send viruses to all your closest e-pals. The problem is that someone else owns part of the XML code, a part that is unique and patented. And today is the deadline for the injunction.
The code is protected under property right law and will cost Microsoft $290 million in damages. After which Microsoft still will not own the code. At this point, Microsoft will either have to fix the code or they will have to discontinue selling one of the most popular word processing programs on the planet. Plus, they will have to pay that $290 million in damages.
While that price tag is likely to set them back, it is not going to put Microsoft out of business. Today is a bitter cold day in January, and maybe just a bit colder for Microsoft.