OnLive awarded important cloud gaming patent
Would-be cloud gaming entrepreneurs take note: OnLive has secured its own cloud gaming patent. VentureBeat reports that the patent was awarded to OnLive head Steve Perlman, who submitted it way back in 2002. The patent covers "Apparatus and method for wireless video gaming," specifically the transmission of compressed game signals from one location to another. The concept for the set-top-box is also covered in the patent's claims.
The patent represents a potential hurdle for other cloud-based gaming startups, should such services use similar methods of delivery. For what it's worth, Perlman stated that he has never sued anyone for patent infringement. Thankfully, Joystiq's foward-thinking cloud gaming service will remain unaffected, as the entire operation runs on tin cans and string.
