Apple Countersues Creative in Dispute Over iPod User Interface Patents

Cupertino, Calif. -- Cupertino-based Apple has filed a countersuit against Creative Technology, a maker of MP3 players and other media players, claiming that the Singapore-based company infringed on four of its iPod patents. Apple's suit was filed on May 15, the same day that Creative filed its own patent infringement lawsuit against Apple, also over music player patents. Creative also has  petitioned the U.S. International Trade Commission to block the import and sale of iPods from the company's Asian manufacturers. "Creative proactively held discussions with Apple in our efforts to explore amicable solutions," Creative spokesman Phil O'Shaughnessy said in a statement. "At no time during these discussions or at any other time did Apple mention to us the patents it raised in its lawsuit."
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