“The fact that Apple is now actively changing the product to block Real Networks who did the work to support the iPod, changes things quite a bit. Apple crossed the line. I support them using the iPod’s amazing success to bolster iTunes sales. I don’t think they should be forced to help others as long as that is where the strategy stopped. I can not support them actively blocking others from trying to offer competitive alternatives to iTunes on the iPod,” AudioGoGo.com writes.
“This is exactly like the accusations that Microsoft tried to break DR-DOS or other products from working with Windows. Because Apple has 90% of the HD player market, this action effectively uses the iPod to lock Real Networks out of selling and competing in that market,” AudioGoGo.com writes.
“To take this metaphor outside the computer world. Imagine 90% of all passenger cars were Fords. I don’t think Ford should have to offer third-party stereos, or help makers of third-party stereos design them to work. The moment Ford prevents the owner from choosing one of those stereos, by changing the car’s wiring, that is wrong,” AudioGoGo.com writes. “For this reason, I would support Real Networks if they sue Apple over this change of the iPod. I prefer competition to happen in the market place, not the courtroom. However, in my opinion this alteration of the iPod specifically to block a competitor, might justify legal action. No one is forcing iPod owners to switch from iTunes, no one should prevent them from choosing an alternative if it is there.”
Full article here.
MacDailyNews Take: So Apple should be forced to always make sure that third-party hacks work, even though Apple does not promise iPod “Harmony” support or even mention it anywhere? In which universe exactly would such a lawsuit have any merit at all? The reason the iPod+iTunes combo works so well is that third-rate companies aren’t involved. If Real wants to sell songs that work with Apple’s iPod family of music players, they should develop a store that becomes so popular that Apple wishes to work with them. Or they should develop a player that becomes so popular that Apple decides to support it with their iTunes Music Store. Real should work on competing instead of trying to latch onto someone else’s successful enterprise like a parasite.