EU clears Apple's $3bn Beats deal despite Bose legal claims

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM: The European Commission has cleared Apple's $3bn purchase of US headphone manufacturer and music streaming business Beats despite Bose lodging court papers claiming patent infringements.
Beats headphones and music streaming system. The European Commission has approved the deal for Apple to buy Beats for $3bn. Image:
Beats headphones and music streaming system. The European Commission has approved the deal for Apple to buy Beats for $3bn. Image: MuteMag

Brussels had been concerned the takeover of Beats Electronics, founded by rapper Dr Dre and music industry legend Jimmy Iovine, by Apple could hurt competition as both make headphones.

But the European Union's executive arm ruled that even combined they would have only a very modest market share and face stiff competition from the likes of Bose, Sennheiser and Sony.

In terms of digital music sales, the Commission came to a similar conclusion.

Last week, audio technology veteran Bose sued Beats Electronics over the alleged use of patented technology for cancelling noise in earphones.

Source AFP via I-Net Bridge


 
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