Well, we said Apple Computers were unlikely to be looking to settle on this one, and I think we were right because the iPod maker has just countersued Creative Technology in the growing dispute over MP3 player patents.
As previously reported, Singapore based Creative last week launched litigation against Apple claiming that the company's market leader iPod uses an interface that violates their US patent, which they were awarded last year based on a 2001 filing. Based on that patent claim, Creative are looking for the US courts to stop the sale of iPods, and for US customs officials to stop the import of iPods from China, where the music players are currently completed.
Apple have now responded with a lawsuit that claims Creative's MP3 players violate four of their iPod based patents. Creative have responded by telling reporters that they are not aware that their products violate any Apple patents, adding that Apple themselves have never raised such violations in past negotiations between the two companies. Creative spokesman Phil O'Shaughnessy told Bloomberg: "Creative proactively held discussions with Apple in our efforts to explore amicable solutions. At no time during these discussions or at any other time did Apple mention to us the patents it raised in its lawsuit".
As soon as Creative filed their initial lawsuit Apple was expected to fight fire with fire. The consensus is that this dispute will now be fought in the courts, which will be lovely. Well, lovely if you're the kind of person with a music business e-newsletter to fill up each day. Here's to a long drawn out legal battle.