I think this would fall under a "design patent"[1] (though I may be wrong). Since they didn't bother to get one, as long as the actual assets aren't used, the i

I think this would fall under a "design patent"[1] (though I may be wrong). Since they didn't bother to get one, as long as the actual assets aren't used, the interaction and design can be imitated. Also, speaking as a designer, I would be thrilled if I saw people so fervently duplicating an interaction scheme I had created. "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery," and all that. [1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design_patent http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design_patent