Palm Misuses USB Device IDs Then Files Complaint Against Apple

POST

MAIL

Posted July 24, 2009 at 6:12pm by iClarified · 7821 views

Palm has filed a complaint against Apple with the USB Implementers Forum claiming that its unfair they can't misuse the USB Device IDs.

Originally, Palm identified the Pre to iTunes as an iPod made by Palm. This caused Apple to release iTunes 8.2.1 an update which checked the Vender ID to make sure the connected device was manufactured by Apple.

Unbelievably, Palm has now spoofed Apple's USB Vender ID to re-enable iTunes sync for the Palm Pre. This behavior is specifically against the rules for use of USB.

Unauthorized use of assigned or unassigned USB Vendor ID Numbers and associated Product ID Numbers are strictly prohibited.

If that wasn't questionable enough, the company also filed a complaint with the USB Implementers Forum saying that Apple's blocking of the Palm Vender ID constitutes improper use.

“Palm believes that openness and interoperability offer better experiences for users by allowing them the freedom to use the content they own without interference across devices and services, so on behalf of consumers, we have notified the USB Implementers Forum [USB-IF] of what we believe is improper use of the Vendor ID number by another member."

It seems that Palm believes a lawsuit from Apple will help its publicity.

[via PreCentral]

Palm Misuses USB Device IDs Then Files Complaint Against Apple

Follow iClarified

Jay - July 25, 2009 at 1:20pm

Palm is so stupid! Its Apples store and Apple only wants Apple products used with it. What doesn't Palm understand. Apple can do what ever they want with their products. I smell a Firewire Adapter for new iPod and iPhone.... I'd like to see Apple allow the Pre but charge per sync like $10

Reply · Like · Mark as Spam

mz - July 25, 2009 at 7:31pm

You are stupid. What do u have against palm owners syncing with iTunes? How will that negatively effect you in anyway. I have an iPhone 3Gs and i could give less of a shit what other devices can sync to iTunes, in fact, its probably better because it means more competition thus better products for us the consumer. Steve Jobs needs to pull that dick out of his ass, and stop being so anal and restrictive with his software or else they are doomed like they were in the early 90s. Either way Palm is doing this to get free publicity and make thier competitor look bad. How is that stupid? Thats one of the smartest marketing moves ive ever heard of. Secondly, Apple wont lose shit as people using Palms would buy music, movies, etc on iTunes, thus making Apple money. Thirdly, I dont think iPhone sales will get hurt because Pre can sync with iTunes. No one buys the iPhone because they want to sync with iTunes. In fact, they might attract Pre users eventually to buy an iPhone. The only thing hurting iPhone sales is piece of shit AT&T. Your obviously a fanboy who doesnt know shit, and will worship anything Steve daddy says.

Diegoooo - July 28, 2009 at 1:41pm

I had an iPod because it's beatiful sync with itunes and then got the iPhone cuz now I don't have to carry my phone and my iPod so yeah if Palm has a great phone that also syncs with iTunes beautifuly it might affect my decition on which is gonna be my next phone

Mz - July 28, 2009 at 2:03pm

Which would force apple to further improve it's iPhone and iPods to stay ahead of the competition, which is good for us. Maybe next time Apple will actually make some real improvements to the iPhone, instead of throw in a faster processor and copy/paste and call it a day. Without competition, apple has no incentive to improve thier products significantly, and will continue to skimp and profit off of us. And like I said earlier, who cares? How does it negatively affect you or me whether some dumbass who bought a Pre syncs with iTunes or not? They could sync with a rock for all I care...I'll still be able to sleep at night

Bogus - July 24, 2009 at 11:39pm

Hahaha...Apple was going to Sue em anyways. Guess Palm went ahead and took care of that. Now let us sit back and watch :) ....Popcorn anyone?

jail time for some - July 25, 2009 at 10:36am

Now if a local - joe blow - stole - IDs what not - they would get slammed for that..kinda like jailbreaking or unlocking... any how I hope Apple educates Palm. they are so Passe - even Rimm, afters of neglect of apple users - is writing its own sync software... Palm should be able to do so, otherwise they should just die off and fade away.

US DOJ - July 25, 2009 at 6:46pm

I somehow doubt Apple will sue... it will likely backfire on them if they do since the US DOJ will finally take notice and slap them around for monopolistic practices.