Apple: we’re not trying to steal third party app ideas

Apple has issued a statement saying that it’s not trying to steal the ideas of other app developers.

It's been pointed out that a number of patents filed by Apple have looked suspiciously like some of those previously published by third-party developers.

The example that emerged was of an Apple patent application for a travel app, which featured an illustration that was lifted directly from FutureTap’s Where To app.

Apple has now reached out to FutureTap to allay its fears and offer an apology. Sort of. Apple’s senior patent counsel had this to say:

“As discussed, Apple is contemplating steps to attribute the screenshot in the patent application to FutureTap. The patent application in question does not claim as inventive the pictured user interface nor the general concept of an integrated travel services application. We appreciate your taking time out to discuss the matter and will keep you updated.”

It appears that Apple has been using existing third-party apps to illustrate patent ideas that involve a similar style or technology. In the process, however, Apple seems to have forgotten to attribute the illustrated app to its developers.