Digital Home Thoughts: "Inventor" Of Walkman May Sue Apple

"Andreas Pavel's original 1970s concept of the "stereobelt" revolutionised portable listening and Sony's version - the Walkman - became a global hit. Now the 57-year-old stereo enthusiast, who works in Milan, is threatening to use his payout to sue Apple Computer, whose iPod portable music player is the digital successor to the Walkman. He is believed to be considering cases in Italy and Canada, where his patents were filed later and may still be valid."

Oops. First Eminem, and now this? I'm beginning to feel sorry for Apple. Just when they finally have a fast growing market in their hands...this happens. If Mr. Pavel can collect royalties from iPod sales, he will be one very wealthy fellow.