Palm Misuses USB Device IDs Then Files Complaint Against Apple

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

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

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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

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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

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.