Quantum sues Apple

Quantum Research Group has filed a lawsuit against Apple over the capacitive touch-sensing technology used in the Cupertino-based company's iPod clickwheels. "We are suing Apple over charge-transfer technology in iPods," said Quantum CEO Hal Philipp. "Some are based on Cypress' PSoC chip and used in a way we believe infringes our patent." The suit was filed in December of 2005, but was kept under wraps by both parties during the ongoing negotiations. Apple has filed a response in the case "denying all material allegations and asserting numerous affirmative defences," according to a report from electronicsweekly.com, and filed "counterclaims for non-infringement and invalidity." Quantum's CEO noted that "There are settlement discussions going on but I believe it will go to trial later this year," adding that "I am hoping iPhone does not contain Quantum-patented charge-transfer technology." The executive clarified that some iPods use a capacitive touch sensor from Synaptics which he says doesn't infringe upon Quantum's patents.

by MacNN Staff