Apple Plans To Make Chips For Handhelds

Posted by Soulskill on Friday October 31, 2008 @08:54AM from the single-core-multi-core-or-apple-core dept.

Preedit writes "Apple plans to get into the business of designing microprocessors for handheld devices, according to legal papers that are part of a dispute between IBM and one of its top technology executives. IBM is suing Power chip expert Mark Papermaster for allegedly violating a non-compete agreement and accepting a job at Apple. In court papers, IBM claims Apple wants Papermaster 'to design microprocessors for incorporation in a variety of electronic devices, including handheld devices.' The suit, according to Infoweek, also notes that Apple earlier this year bought out P.A. Semi. IBM thinks it knows why."

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Gosh and I wondered what they'd do with P.A. Semi by Anonymous Coward · 2008-10-31 08:55 · Score: 5, Insightful

When you buy a mobile chip designer what else are you going to do with it?
Re:non-compete == BS by Anonymous Coward · 2008-10-31 09:31 · Score: 5, Insightful

Stealing designs is already illegal in the first place. Non compete agreements prevent you from taking a similar job after your current job has been terminated, even if you have no intention to steal your former employer's trade secrets.
The real aim of non compete agreements is to lower your negotiation power. Take this salary cut, and no you can't go to the competition because of the non compete.