You can freely build on How to Keep Apps Running Without a Constant Internet Connection
This patent expired in 2023. Every claim — 0 independent, 1 dependent — is now unenforceable. Anyone can use, reproduce, manufacture, sell, or offer for sale this technology without a license.
Original assignee
International Business Machines Corp
Patent granted
2009
Expired
2023
Forward citations
1
What this patent covers
This patent describes a way to keep software running smoothly on devices that move in and out of network coverage. When a client application sends a request, such as an FTP file download, a client proxy intercepts it. If the connection is down, the proxy stores the request and immediately sends a fake, substitute response to the application so it does not crash or hang. Once the device reconnects, the proxy sends the actual request to the server and updates the local file using a unique signature to ensure the right data is overwritten.
What is now free to use
All 1 claims of US 7543038 are in the public domain. Specifically:
The 1 dependent claim add narrowing limitations and are also free.
What is NOT covered
Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.
Does not cover real-time streaming services where a substitute response would lead to data corruption.
Does not cover systems that rely on persistent, always-on connections without proxy-based interception.
Does not cover general data caching that lacks the specific 'substitute response' mechanism for application continuity.
Who is building on this today
IBM remains a primary holder of patents in this space, but the concepts are now standard in mobile operating systems like Android and iOS, and in frameworks like PWA (Progressive Web Apps) which use service workers to manage offline states.
Products built on expired version of this technology
Offline-first mobile applications
Field service handheld devices
Remote sensor data collection systems
How to cite this patent in your documentation
International Business Machines Corp. US Patent 7543038. Arrangement and method for impermanent connectivity. Granted 2009, expired 2023. Now in the public domain.
Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.
PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.