Mac clone maker PsyStar dupes Apple's updates

Its security updates look like copies of Apple's, but is it breaking any rules?

Searches of Apple's Web site revealed no documents spelling out a policy that would bar others, whether a company like Psystar or individuals, from posting Apple updates on non-Apple servers. However, other operating system vendors, such as Microsoft, have taken a dim view of the practice, and have actively quashed unsanctioned updates and warned users from obtaining updates from unofficial sources.

Last August, for instance, Microsoft forced AutoUpdater, a popular alternative to Windows Update, off the Internet, citing copyright infringement.

Questions were raised last month about Psystar bundling Apple's operating system as soon as it announced it would start selling clones, since the Leopard EULA specifically bans users from installing the OS on non-Apple hardware. "You agree not to install, use or run the Apple Software on any non-Apple-labeled computer, or to enable others to do so," the EULA reads. Although Computerworld repeatedly asked both Apple and Psystar to comment on the practice, neither responded.

On Wednesday both Apple and Psystar failed to reply to requests for comment on the latter's posting of the former's operating system and software security updates.

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