Biz (2586)

Apple settles with Apple

25 years of feuding over

5 February 2007 15:40 GMT / By Stuart Miles

It's taken them 25 years, but Apple Inc and Apple Corp have said that they have put their differences behind them - finally.

In a statement on Apple's website, Apple said:

"Apple Inc. and The Beatles' company Apple Corps Ltd. are pleased to announce the parties have entered into a new agreement concerning the use of the name 'Apple' and apple logos which replaces their 1991 Agreement."

"Under this new agreement, Apple Inc. will own all of the trademarks related to 'Apple' and will license certain of those trademarks back to Apple Corps for their continued use."

"In addition, the ongoing trademark lawsuit between the
companies will end, with each party bearing its own legal costs, and Apple Inc. will continue using its name and logos on iTunes."

"The terms of settlement are confidential."

Commenting on the settlement, Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO said, "We love the Beatles, and it has been painful being at odds with them over these trademarks. It feels great to resolve this in a positive manner, and in a way that should remove the potential of further disagreements in the future".

Neil Aspinall, manager of Apple Corps said, "It is great to put this dispute behind us and move on. The years ahead are going to be very exciting times for us. We wish Apple Inc. every success and look forward to many years of peaceful co-operation with them".

The Beatles have yet to make any of their songs available via digital download, however some commentators believe now a deal has been signed, that could all change.

Previous rumours have suggested that the Beatles latest album - Love - will be available on iTunes on Valentines Day.

Full tags

Biz, Lawsuits, Apple, Beatles, iTunes