"It is true that product branding gives an advantage.  As long as the product brand isn't stolen as well, which has been known to happen.  However, trade-secrets are hard to keep secret from a determined thief, which is the purpose for patents.  BTW,…"

"Drop patents?  There's a good idea.  Let's remove all financial incentive to putting effort into creating anything new!  Why I look forward to spending 18 months of the effort of half a dozen engineers so that I can facilitate a <you know who>…"