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USB-IF sides with Apple in Pre/iTunes syncing debacle

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On September 23, 2009, 2:35 PM

Leading up to the Palm Pre's launch, news broke that the iPhone competitor was able to dupe iTunes into thinking it was an Apple device. To accomplish this, Palm used a vendor ID that had been issued to Apple by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF). In effect, the Pre was able to sync things like DRM-free music and photos. As most expected, Apple's reaction was less than friendly.

In July, Apple pushed out an iTunes update (v8.2.1) that effectively crippled the Pre's compatibility. A week later, Palm issued a software update that restored the ability to sync. Apple locked the Pre out again with the release of iTunes 9 earlier this month. Palm responded by complaining to the USB-IF, who has now sided with Apple.

In its complaint to the USB-IF, Palm said noted the latest update of webOS would once again repair iTunes compatibility. Backing Apple, the USB-IF warned Palm that any further attempts to use Cupertino's vender ID would be a violation of its rules. The organization informed Palm that it may only use its own issued vendor IDs, and has requested that handset-maker clarify its intentions within seven days.

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  1. September 23, 2009 3:09 PM
    TorturedChaos, TechSpot Chancellor, said:

    Well as much as I don't like Apple, I think its pretty clear Palm was doing something they were not supposed to. Using someone else Vendor ID sounds very illegal to me.

    Reply
  2. September 23, 2009 4:57 PM
    Guest said:

    It really is a bit anti-competitive; I don't see any harm in Apple allowing it, however, they have the right to block it because it's their software.

    Reply
  3. September 24, 2009 5:45 PM
    Guest said:

    Yeah, what the heck, Palm? I don't like all the proprietary stuff regarding iTunes, but it's fully within Apple's rights to use it. A work-around is something I would expect from the internet community, but not from an actual corporation, much less one the size of Palm.

    Reply

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