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Beatles Lose Apple Trademark Suit

In the court battle between Apple Computer and Apple Corps, the not-found-in-nature rainbow apple has beat out the Granny Smith.

On Monday, Apple Computer won its trademark dispute with the Beatles’ Apple Corps (owned by Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Yoko Ono, and the estate of George Harrison), which claimed Apple Computer had violated their former trademark settlement when it used its logo to sell music, according to the Associated Press.

Apple Computer said iTunes was more of a data transmission service, which would allow it to distribute music. The judge agreed, noting he found that “no breach of the trademark agreement [had] been demonstrated.” That means Apple Computer can continue to use the fruit logo on the iTunes Music Store and in ads.

Apple Corps plans to appeal the ruling.

Meanwhile, Apple Corps may be giving in to internet music services. During the trial it was noted that the company is preparing to sell the band’s catalog online. Apple Chief Executive Steve Jobs hopes that means that the band will come knocking on iTunes’ door.

“We are glad to put this disagreement behind us,” he said. “We have always loved the Beatles, and hopefully we can now work together to get them on the iTunes Music Store.”

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