Teenager Targeted by Apple in White iPhone 4 Lawsuit Interviewed

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As we reported yesterday, Apple earlier this week filed a lawsuit against teenager Fei Lam and his parents over Lam's sale of unauthorized white iPhone 4 parts, alleging trademark infringement and dilution. At the time, we noted that Apple had simultaneously filed a voluntary dismissal of the case, suggesting that a settlement may have already been reached.

But in an interview with Fast Company, Lam reveals that he knows essentially nothing about the lawsuit, having learned about it only as reports spread through the media yesterday. Lam notes that a settlement has not been reached, but it will obviously be a topic of discussions apparently set to be held between Lam and Apple's lawyers "within the next month".

Q: When did you first find out about the lawsuit? Did Apple call or send a letter?
A: I came back from school today and saw your email. Lol.

Q: So have your parents mostly been handling the case then?
A: I told Apple's lawyer that I'm sick and to meet when I get better. That was last week. I'm [sic] been handling the whole thing

Q: So you have not settled?
A: I think that will be decided in the meeting.

According to Lam, he no longer has a lawyer representing him in the case, as he is unable to afford one. Consequently, he says that he will be meeting alone with Apple's lawyers at their offices in New York City.

Lam notes that he did not make $130,000 in profits as some reports have claimed, although he declined to specify exactly how much he made from the venture or where those profits have gone. The initial report on his business noted that he had sold $130,000 worth of the parts, but it is unknown how much he had to pay his Chinese supplier for them.

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Top Rated Comments

FrizzleFryBen Avatar
188 months ago
My cat gives a more informative and interesting interview
Score: 14 Votes (Like | Disagree)
BC2009 Avatar
188 months ago
The fact that Apple filed the lawsuit and then immediately and voluntarily dismissed it probably means that Apple is doing what they have to legally protect their trademarks without opening the door for others, while still going easy on this kid.

Sure the kid did something wrong, but I think this case probably warrants a stern talking to, a threat of really pursuing damages if he does anything like it again, and a request for an apology.

Apple's primary focus here should be protecting their trademarks from infringement by others by going on record as having filed suit. Apple has nothing to gain by seeking monetary damages. However, the kid who did this has something to learn about dealing in obviously stolen parts.
Score: 13 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Westyfield2 Avatar
188 months ago
"I told Apple's lawyer that I'm sick" ... "I came back from school today"


Right... :confused: :rolleyes:
Score: 13 Votes (Like | Disagree)
ravenvii Avatar
188 months ago
No representation, and a teenager to boot?

I don't envy the Apple lawyers facing ethical issues relating to meeting with him.
Score: 12 Votes (Like | Disagree)
blackpond Avatar
188 months ago
Tip to kid:

Record the meeting.
Score: 9 Votes (Like | Disagree)
spiritlevel Avatar
188 months ago
Quite a good idea going on his own I reckon. A roomful of apple lawyers Vs a a kid... They'll have to tread lightly and tell he's been a very naughty boy.
Score: 9 Votes (Like | Disagree)