Here are your Apple rumors and AAPL stock news items for Monday:
Apple Licensed Technology to IBM, Nokia: The understanding amongst the tech companies of the world competing with Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) is that Apple technology is off-limits. If you want to get your hands on the company’s apps, you have to buy them like everyone else, and don’t think for a second that you can develop your own product by licensing Apple’s wares. Not going to happen. Except, it did happen. According to The Verge (via Apple Insider), Apple actually licensed its touchscreen-based scrolling technology to IBM (NYSE:IBM) and Nokia (NYSE:NOK). The patent in question is cited among those Apple claims Samsung (PINK:SSNLF) has infringed upon with its smartphones and tablets. It was from a filing in Apple’s case against Samsung that the licensing agreements came out. Apparently Apple offered the same licensing agreement to Samsung, which in turn declined the offer.
Microsoft Takes on Siri With Kinect: Since debuting the Kinect in 2009, Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) has been promising that users of its Xbox-based voice- and motion-control device would be able to use it for watching TV. Until now, Kinect owners looking to watch TV on their Xboxes could navigate menus only with their hands, not with voice commands. Starting Tuesday, that finally will change. Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer demoed the voice controlled TV navigation in September when he discussed the company’s broader plans for TV on the Xbox. Voice control for TV functionality in Kinect likely will be a feather in Microsoft’s cap when Apple releases a Siri voice control-equipped HDTV in 2012.
Apple’s Grand Central Store Opens Friday: Just in time for the holidays, Apple is opening its new destination retail outlet in New York City’s most famous transit center. The new Grand Central Terminal Apple Store is opening on Friday, Dec. 9. The store will keep somewhat unusual hours during weekdays, opening at 7 a.m. to cater to early-morning commuters passing through the station. Apple is spending $1.1 million per year to rent the space.
As of this writing, Anthony John Agnello did not hold a position in any of the aforementioned stocks. Follow him on Twitter at @ajohnagnello and become a fan of InvestorPlace on Facebook. For more from the company, check out our previous Apple Rumors stories.
