Edible Apple

The US Justice Department filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple two weeks ago, alleging that Apple, along with a cohort of publishers, colluded to raise the price of e-books on Apple’s iBookstore, and in turn, adversely affect the pricing of e-books on Amazon as well.

While three publishers have already settled with the US Justice Department, Macmillan and Penguin are apparently planning to fight the allegations. As is Apple who continues to deny any wrongdoing.

In the wake of the allegations, Apple spokesman Tom Neymayr issued a statement explaining:

The DOJ’s accusation of collusion against Apple is simply not true. The launch of the iBookstore in 2010 fostered innovation and competition, breaking Amazon’s monopolistic grip on the publishing industry. Since then customers have benefited from eBooks that are more interactive and engaging. Just as we’ve allowed developers to set prices on the App Store, publishers set prices on the iBookstore.

What’s more, legal experts have been vocal in stating that the Justice Department has an arduous challenge ahead as it looks to secure an antitrust verdict on Apple.

So it’s not at all surprising that Apple is publicly welcoming a trial on the fact at issue and is looking forward to defending itself.

Daniel Floyd, an attorney representing Apple, explained Apple’s position to US District Judge Denise Cote.

“Our basic view is that we would like the case to be decided on the merits. We believe that this is not an appropriate case against us and we would like to validate that.”

Game on.

The next hearing on the case is scheduled to take place on June 22.

via Reuters