Prince McLeanQuantum Research on Monday denied media reports that it is preparing a second patent infringement lawsuit against iPod maker Apple over its upcoming iPhone handset.
A reported published by Electronics Weekly last week suggested Quantum was readying a second suit, this time over the iPhone's rear-surface touch screen and proximity sensing. However, a company statement provided to the EETimes on Monday denied such claims.
"Quantum has no knowledge of any infringement by Apple of Quantum's patents in regard to the iPhone or any other product other than those products alleged to be infringing in our 2005 lawsuit against Apple and Cypress Semiconductor," the company said.
The firm added that it will operate under the assumption that none of its patents have been violated "until the iPhone product is made available for public sale."
Quantum's original suite against Apple is still pending.
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Quantum's original suite against Apple is still pending.
"Suit"
Oh, okay ... so are they saying Apple is off the hook ... for now? I've almost forgotten what it's like to have a good rumor about an upcoming product, however, I am up to speed with Apple's legal department!
I'll put money down betting Quantum will sue Apple sometime this year.
Makes sense. You can't really sue over an internal-only product, no matter how much it is advertised. If they sue before the product is released, then Apple can make some last minute changes and blow the entire suit out of the water.
If, on the other hand, Quantum waits until the iPhone ships, they can buy one and take it apart, and have enough information to possibly make a case. Assuming there is a case to be made, of course.
AKA: until apple makes money off it.