It looks like the case against the two individuals who allegedly found the original iPhone 4 prototype last year and then sold it to Gizmodo is coming to an end, as the two individuals have pleaded ‘No Contest’ in the case against them.
Brian Hogan, who allegedly found the iPhone 4 prototype, and his friend, Sage Wallower, who allegedly helped Hogan sell the iPhone 4 prototype, have pleaded ‘No Contest’. The judge has sentenced the pair to 40 hours of public service, one year of probation, and each has to pay a $250 fine.
Neither of the two individuals has pleaded guilty, and pleading ‘No Contest’ means that a civil lawsuit cannot be brought against them. So, basically, Apple can’t sue them for selling the iPhone 4 prototype to Gizmodo.
The Incident and Its Implications
The incident began when Brian Hogan reportedly found the iPhone 4 prototype at a bar in Redwood City, California. The prototype was left behind by an Apple engineer who was testing the device. Hogan, instead of returning the device to Apple or the bar, decided to keep it. With the help of his friend Sage Wallower, Hogan contacted various tech blogs to sell the prototype. Gizmodo, a well-known technology blog, eventually purchased the device for $5,000.
This event caused a significant stir in the tech community, as it provided an early look at Apple’s next-generation iPhone. The leak revealed several new features and design changes that Apple had not yet announced. This situation raised questions about the ethics of tech journalism and the responsibilities of individuals who come across proprietary technology.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
The legal ramifications of this case were closely watched by many. By pleading ‘No Contest,’ Hogan and Wallower avoided a lengthy trial and the possibility of a harsher sentence. The plea also means that they do not admit guilt but accept the punishment. This outcome prevents Apple from pursuing a civil lawsuit against them, which could have resulted in significant financial penalties.
Ethically, the case highlights the importance of handling found property responsibly. While some may argue that Hogan and Wallower were simply taking advantage of an opportunity, others believe they should have made efforts to return the prototype to its rightful owner. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of such actions, both legally and morally.
The case also had implications for tech journalism. Gizmodo’s decision to purchase and publish details about the prototype raised questions about journalistic integrity and the boundaries of reporting. While the blog gained significant traffic and attention from the scoop, it also faced criticism for its role in the incident.
Source Cnet
Have a look at our iPhone 4S review to see what we thought of Apple’s latest smartphone, plus iOS 5 and their new virtual voice-activated assistant Siri.
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