So ... I have this idea for a feature that would be SOOOO HELPFUL on a cellphone ...

It solves a problem that many people face when on the phone, but only for a few short seconds.

So, since I dont make a phone myself, nor do I have a software application that functions as a phone application ... I am presented with a dilemma ...

Should I go through the work of filing a patent? I was under the assumption that if you file a patent, you have to prove your idea with a product within a specific period of time.

Ideally, I would love to be able to call up someone from Apple that could buy the idea from me, file the patent themselves, and then implement it as part of the iphone ... I just dont know anyone at apple.

Has anyone ever gone through a similar problem? Ever sold an unpatented (but patentable idea) to a company?

[Edited on August 27, 2009 at 3:01 PM. Reason : .]

8/27/2009 2:51:46 PM

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=filing+a+patent

8/27/2009 2:57:12 PM

yeah, they did an American Dad episode on this feature. Season 4, episode 14.

8/27/2009 3:31:06 PM

you can file a provisionary patent for ~$300 and then you have ~18 months to prove the idea and file for a full patent. full patent is anywhere from 50k-75k.

8/27/2009 3:48:50 PM

^ i thought that number was closer to $5k for a US-only patent...$15 for some hardcore, intricate stuff, maybe

8/27/2009 3:54:37 PM

I have a buddy that works in the patent office. Might be able to pull some strings for you...

for a hefty fee .

Just kidding! Good luck with your idea.

8/27/2009 4:16:02 PM

You can just patent ideas. You patent devices and technical processes. Unless you can figure out how to make/build whatever it is you're talking about you can't really get a patent. YMMV.

8/27/2009 4:23:25 PM