Apple Sues "Think Secret"

MacRumors.com ^ | January 5, 2005 | Doctor Q

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Apple Sues Think Secret

CNET News reports that Apple is suing rumor site Think Secret for posting Apple trade secrets and for encouraging and inducing persons to provide product information in breach of agreements. Previously, Apple had named ThinkSecret.com, along with AppleInsider.com and PowerPage.org, in subpoenas while tracking down leaks of information about Asteroid.

The court filings list particular Think Secret articles, including the headless iMac and iLife '05 stories, without identifying which reported details are true.

"Apple has filed a civil complaint against the owner of ThinkSecret.com and unnamed individuals who we believe stole Apple's trade secrets," Apple said in its statement. "We believe that Think Secret solicited information about unreleased Apple products from these individuals, who violated their confidentiality agreements with Apple by providing details that were later posted on the Internet."

In the suit, Apple outlines the damage that leaks cause, noting that disclosures give competitors a head start and hurt the buzz created around its products. "Unauthorized disclosures diminish the interest of both the mainstream and trade media in the launch of a new product," Apple said.

Previous related stories: Apple Sues Over Leak, Apple Sues Tiger Leaks, $499 Headless iMac?, iWork '05 Productivity Suite?

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"Unauthorized disclosures diminish the interest of both the mainstream and trade media in the launch of a new product," Apple said.

That will be difficult to prove. I think the rumors provide more publicity. There is a big media buzz about the $499 iMac rumor that Think Secret first reported.

And the lawsuit will provide yet more publicity.

But it will be interesting to learn the true identity of Think Secret's "Nick DePlume".

[austinmark]

"Apple has filed a civil complaint against the owner of ThinkSecret.com and unnamed individuals who we believe stole Apple's trade secrets,"

Apple best get w/the program, so to speak. Their Real problem is within. The iPod is fast becoming their best source of revenue (and what 18 yo.'s and under only really KNOW what Apple is famous for), profits are up. The New G5 iMac has some problems (as all new product lines do), BUT the iMac division is not the "Darling" anymore.

Insecurities? Jealousy? Anyone? Anyone?

And no one stole these secrets, they were given away without a fight.

[Swordmaker]

Apple files suit against rumor mongers PING!

If you want to be included or excluded on the Mac Ping List, please FreepMail me...

[Question_Assumptions]

In the case of the headless iMac, I don't think the rumor hurt Apple unless it's false because it seems to be building positive buzz for their announcement. The Asteroid leak, on the other hand, could really hurt Apple if it pushes their competitors to either beat them to market with similar products or adjust their pricing in anticipation.

[jriemer]

In the case of the headless iMac, I don't think the rumor hurt Apple unless it's false because it seems to be building positive buzz for their announcement.

The "headless" iMac is back to the future x3 in Appleworld. You can consider both the Apple IIC, LC and the Quadra 610 "headless" low-profile computers.

It appears that every processor generation has to take a whack at this design.

[SunkenCiv]

thanks for the ping. One problem for Apple with these rumors is, if there's no truth to them, Apple's good idea turns out to be not being worked on; and if there is truth to the rumors, it tips Apple's hand. Either way, there could be an impact on shareholders. :')

http://www.macrumors.com/pages/2004/12/20041229012802.shtml
http://www.appleinsider.com/article.php?id=802

[jriemer]

The lawsuit is another way of drawing attention to the "headless mac" and the asteroid products. Yesterday's "leak" was of interest to only the people in the Mac community, now there's a lawsuit and that generates more press to a potentially larger audience all by itself. Meanwhile, the products (if they exist) and the company gets play in the media.

Why by advertising?

[Bush2000]

This lawsuit is pretty weak and pathetic. Apple partisans will, no doubt, cheer Apple on -- while decrying similar tactics from Microsoft and other companies...

[HAL9000]

"Apple partisans will, no doubt, cheer Apple on"

As a patriot who supports the U.S. Constitution, I disagree with Apple's motion for an injunction. That would amount to prior restraint of the free press. And I don't think TS should be compelled to reveal their sources. I'll reserve judgement on the remaining issues.

I do hope Apple is able to stop the leaks. The damage in this instance seems minimal, but companies have failed in the past when information about forthcoming products was released prematurely. That's what killed Adam Osborne's company.

"while decrying similar tactics from Microsoft and other companies"

There doesn't seem to be much interest in Microsoft's boring rumors - which consist mostly of product delays and cancellations. At least Apple has products worth gossiping about.

[Salo]

No - Apple is stupid for doing this: it looks like a big corporation bullying some blogger. No good publicity will come of that. Besides, their "problem" is the leak, not who reported what was leaked.

[austinmark]

Me thinks you right. Apple AND Steve Jobs both thrive & prosper with these ......umm......er...... "information Malfunctions".