Apple, along with 17 other companies including Kodak and Microsoft, has been sued for patent infringement by BetaNet, LLC in U.S. District Court in Texas. BetaNet claims that Apple is infringing two U.S. Patents, both entitled “Secure System for Activating Personal Computer Software at Remote Locations” via its iTunes, Aperture, QuickTime, and MobileMe programs. BetaNet claims Apple infringes upon its patent by offering limited software for download, which can be upgraded to a “complete version” after entering license transaction information, which is then sent to a central registration server that returns the complete program. BetaNet is seeking damages, costs, expenses, and interest, as well as a permanent injunction barring all 18 companies from further infringement. [via The Loop]
Apple hit with patent lawsuit over iTunes, MobileMe, more
Charles Starrett
Charles Starrett was a senior editor at iLounge. He's been covering the iPod, iPhone, and iPad since their inception. He has written numerous articles and reviews, and his work has been featured in multiple publications.