This doesn't magically invalidate all software patents, however. The opinions, especially that drafted by Justice Thomas, were careful to avoid ruling too broadly. Some filings involving abstract ideas may still be unique enough to deserve a patent. But as a general rule inventors will have to do better than simply recreating basic and abstract ideas with the aide of a computer -- in this case the exchange of financial obligations.

This does set a precedent for invalidating vague software patents that come before courts in the future. And, when paired with the court's recent decision to grant more power to judges to punish patent trolls, it appears that the Supreme Court has taken steps towards effecting the patent reform that Congress has so far failed to pass.