USB authority spanks Palm, sides with Apple

The USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), the industry group that oversees the Universal Serial Bus standard, has finally responded to Palm’s (PALM) claim that Apple (AAPL) is “hampering competition” by repeatedly disabling the Palm Pre’s ability to sync with iTunes–and it’s not looking good for Palm. In a letter submitted to Apple and Palm today, the group dismissed Palm’s claim that Apple has violated its USB-IF Membership Agreement. Worse, it took issue with Palm’s alleged use of Apple’s Vendor Identification Number (VID), which it says violates USB-IF policy.

Ugly news for Palm, and it only gets worse. Because the USB-IF goes on to suggest that Palm itself is violating its Membership Agreement by using Apple’s Vendor ID number to disguise the Pre as an Apple device. From the USB-IF letter:

"I attach for your information the USB-IF’s adopted and published policy regarding Vendor Identification Numbers (VIDs). Under the Policy, Palm may only use the single Vendor ID issued to Palm for Palm’s usage. Usage of any other company’s Vendor ID is specifically precluded. Palm’s expressed intent to use Apple’s VID appears to violate the attached policy.

Please clarify Palm’s intent and respond to this potential violation within seven days."

uh oh for Palm...



USB Standards Group: OK for iTunes to Block Palm Pre | John Paczkowski | Digital Daily | AllThingsD