Palm/Apple Rivalry Heats Up

Jul 16 2009, 10:35am CDT | by Robert Evans

Yesterday, Apple released update 8.2.1 for iTunes. The patch fixed a number of security issues, and also dealt with the problem (by Apple's definition of the word) of the Pre being able to sync up with iTunes. Apple went so far as to address the Pre directly. BusinessWeek reports that Apple spokesperson Natalie Kerris said,

“It also disables devices falsely pretending to be iPods, including the Palm Pre. As we’ve said before, newer versions of Apple’s iTunes software may no longer provide syncing functionality with unsupported digital media players.”

It's surprising that Apple actually called out Palm in the open. That means they really want their competitor to know that further attempts to sync up with iTunes will not be tolerated. Palm clearly got the message;

“Palm’s media sync works with iTunes 8.2. If Apple chooses to disable media sync in iTunes, it will be a direct blow to their users who will be deprived of a seamless synchronization experience. However, people will have options. They can stay with the iTunes version that works to sync their music on their Pre, they can transfer the music via USB, and there are other third-party applications we can consider.” said Palm spokesperson Lynn Fox.

That statement is basically Palm admitting that they had intended for the two products to sync, and backing down from any sort of fight with Apple. They're not going to be 'fixing' their media sync feature any time soon.

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Robert Evans
The excitement about new smartphones, tablets and anything mobile drive Robert to unearth the latest rumors and developments in this fast moving space. He adopted 4G as soon as it become available and knows where the mobile market is going.
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