An Israeli technology company, Emblaze, has accused Microsoft and Apple of infringement of its US patent for streaming media.
The Emblaze group owns Magic, Matrix and Sapiens through Formula Systems. Emblaze also owns IP company Zone IP, Emoze – which delivers push e-mail services over wireless networks – and mobile technology company Else.
It warns that its application features in Microsoft’s IIS Smooth Streaming system and Apple’s HTTP Live Streaming application.
The company said it notified Apple and warned it had until 15 March to reply. Emblaze sent a similar warning to Apple.
Emblaze chairman Naftali Shani said that while the company is happy to license its technology to third parties, it will vigorously defend its rights and competitive position.
Microsoft uses Smooth Streaming to deliver multimedia, graphics and animation, including high-definition video via its Silverlight software.
Apple uses HTTP Live Streaming in its iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad, as well as its OS X Snow Leopard operating system, Emblaze said.
By John Kennedy
Photo: Emblaze, a technology company, has accused Microsoft and Apple of infringing its US patent for streaming media
