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NetIndia defers Pianomail launch -- Cites patent-related issues

V. Rishi Kumar

HYDERABAD, Oct. 29

THE Hyderabad-based NetIndia (P) Ltd, which has developed Pianomail, which facilitates faster and easier communication, has deferred its launch to sort out some patent-related issues. Pianomail is an electronic gadget which can be used to send and receiv e messages to a pre-designated network of computers through telephone lines without any plug-ins.

The Managing Director, NetIndia, Mr Vemuru Hari Krishna Prasad, told Business Line that the company, which was scheduled to launch the gadget earlier this week, had put it off pending certain clarifications with the Chennai Patent Office.

According to Mr Prasad, the company had applied for a patent on May 22. This was published in the Gazette of India dated August 26. However, there were two more entries beside NetIndia's patent application.

These applications were apparently made by Dr. Reddy's Research Foundation, (interestingly on the same day), which is engaged in drugs and pharmaceuticals research. As per the notification, Dr. Reddy's has made an application as Novel Communication Equip ment (point-to-point) through telephone handset by means of dedicated compliant equipment -- Pianomail.

On October 25, NetIndia inaugurated its franchisee office -- Hitech Innovative Communication System. It was to have launched the new product on the same day. But, the company has deferred the launch, due to the entries in the Gazette notif ication.

Mr Prasad said the company plans to file its detailed specifications with the Chennai Patents Office next week, and market its product based on the outcome of its representations.