Apple Unveils QuickTime VR 1.0 and Expands Copyright Infringement Suit

Strategic Insights -

Apple has given software developers at the Milia Exhibition in Cannes a preview of its QuickTime VR 1.0 technology, a software that gives users the impression they are exploring a location. The technology allows users to view 360 degrees of a scene, interact with objects, and experience immersive virtual reality. This move comes as Apple expands its copyright infringement suit against San Francisco Canyon Co., a small software development company that worked with Apple on versions of QuickTime, alleging that critical code was copied and ended up in Microsoft's competing program, Video for Windows.

Key Takeaways:

  • Apple unveiled QuickTime VR 1.0 technology, allowing users to explore locations in 360 degrees.
  • The technology lets users interact with objects and experience immersive virtual reality.
  • Apple expanded its copyright infringement suit against San Francisco Canyon Co., alleging that critical code was copied and used in Microsoft's Video for Windows.
  • Apple is seeking an immediate stop to the distribution of Microsoft's competing program and unspecified damages.
  • David Nagel, senior vice-president and general manager of Apple's software division, stated that Apple cannot stand by and watch its research and development efforts being plundered.
  • QuickTime has given Apple a lucrative edge in the growing market for multimedia.

Statistics:

  • 360 degrees of a scene can be viewed using Apple's QuickTime VR 1.0 technology.
  • QuickTime allows users to interact with objects and experience immersive virtual reality.
  • Apple's copyright infringement suit was filed in December against San Francisco Canyon Co. and expanded to include Microsoft Corp. and Intel Corp.
  • Apple has a version of QuickTime for Macintosh personal computers and another, QuickTime for Windows, for PCs with Microsoft's Windows operating software.

Sources:

  • Apple Computer Inc.
  • Milia Exhibition in Cannes
  • AP files