Meet the downloads: Apple and Beatles reach deal
Steve Safran February 6th, 2007
About time. The long dispute between Apple (Computer) and Apple (Corps) is over. The two sides settled a trademark dispute centered around the iTunes music store. Apple Records had long agreed to let the computer company use the “Apple” name provided it didn’t get into the music biz. Once the iTunes store started in 2003, the notoriously litigious Beatles company sent in the lawyers. The suit is the big reason why you can’t download a Beatles song legally. But with the barrier removed, expect to see the Beatles available for download soon. The settlement has sparked a couple of fun fantasies: Motley Fool wants a “Beatles iPod” pre-loaded with songs. (We suggest the color yellow.) And The Mirror points out that the Fab Four could own the Fab Forty - all the slots in the top forty downloads at iTunes. The Beatles are not available for download yet. Still, you’ve got to admit, it’s getting better.
3 Comments Add your own
1. Tim | February 6th, 2007 at 9:43 pm
“it’s getting better all the time.”
Do I win a prize for recognizing the “hidden” Beatles quote in the last line?
2. Steve Safran | February 6th, 2007 at 10:25 pm
While missing the “yelllow” reference to a Beatles iPod? I don’t think so!
3. Erik | February 7th, 2007 at 8:16 am
So I’m guessing the Apple news blackout is over Mr. Safran.
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