Apple's online store threatened with closure

New patent infringement lawsuit points finger at HP too

20 June 2008 15:59 GMT / By Amy-Mae Elliott

Apple and Hewlett-Packard are being sued over how their custom computer ordering systems work on their online stores.

A lawsuit filed this week by Clear With Computers says Apple's online store, its main website, and the sales and supply systems of both infringe on some aspects of patents granted to them in March 1997 and November 1994.

The patents relate to "computer-based techniques to propose and complete sales of multiple parts in a single order".

CWC is asking for a permanent injunction on their services and is requesting that Apple and HP pay "enhanced" damages for what's claimed as deliberate infringement.

CWC has apparently already had the same fight, with a successful outcome, with Staples. Apple and HP have not commented on the new lawsuit.