Creative slaps Apple with iPod patent suit

Singapore-based electronics maker Creative Technology said on Monday it has filed two legal actions against Apple, charging that the popular iPod MP3-player infringes on its patented technology.

In a complaint with the US International Trade Commission, Creative is seeking an injunction that would stop Apple from selling the iPod and iPod Nano in the US. Separately, Creative said it has also sued Apple in US District Court in California, seeking an injunction and damages.

In both cases, Creative says the iPod and iPod Nano infringe on a patent the company has for the interface in its Zen media player, a patent granted last August.

Creative CEO Sim Wong Hoo said in December the company would "aggressively pursue" those that infringed on its patent.

An Apple representative was not immediately available for comment.

Creative is not the first to seek a cut of Apple's iTunes and iPod revenue, citing patent issues. Pat-rights, a Hong Kong company, has said Apple's digital rights management technology infringes on its intellectual property, while another company - Contois Music & Technology - said the iTunes interface uses its patented technology.

Ina Fried writes for CNET News.com