I don’t care what Apply denies, but if we see this same stunt happen when the iPod nano and classic are replaced this September they are going to run the risk of a lawsuit charging violation of the Clayton Antitrust Act—and it will be brought by a long list of third-party headphone manufacturers!
Well..., can’t tell you about any prospects for lawsuits. Of course, I’ve heard about supposed lawsuits and other countries charging Apple with some violation of one kind or another. I just haven’t seen anything happen... :-)
There is absolutely no evidence that this chip is a DRM or Authentication system. The only source for this hoopla is a single blogger with no technical expertise at all. Perhaps a factual statement that would be actionable if it turns out that Lee is lying means nothing to you, but I think it means that there is no "stunt" to be exercised about. It's a NON-ISSUE.