A graphical user interface of a computer program as such, in principle, take no copyright protection can claim. This has the ECJ, referring to a European Directive (2009/24/EC RL) discovered (Judgement of 22.12.2010). According to the ECJ provides a graphical user interface no expression of a computer programs for which no separate software, but as an interaction interface is a necessary part of a software through which it is controlled by the user. This is, moreover, also the case in Germany. In my view, however, should be considered different if the particular design of the surface has rendered this must be regarded as an artistic creation. Then an independent protection could be extended to European level (Directive 2001/29/EC) exist. (RA Christoph Strieder, lawyer specializing in IT law (information technology law) in Solingen and Leverkusen) www.anwalt-strieder.de www.it-quite-fachanwalt.eu )
