Chinese authors file $1.9 million lawsuit against Apple

A few Chinese authors, who’re also a part of China Written Works Copyright Society (CWWCS) have filed a lawsuit against Apple, stating that the Cupertino-based company has infringed on 37 copyrighted works, reports Caixin Online. The lawsuit, which is in its formal proceedings stage has been filed at Beijing’s No.2 Intermediate People’s Court. The authors, who’ve filed the lawsuit, include - popular blogger and social critic Han Han, controversial author Li Chengpeng and prominent writers Cang Yue and Murong Xuecun.

Sued for copyright infringement

The group has taken a strong dislike to the fact that Apple, by the way of its App Store offers noted titles to their users, without involving the writers in the profits. Most of these titles reportedly become runaway hits and are downloaded by several users. The report states that each time a book is downloaded, the author loses money. Interestingly, the writers have also accused Apple of storing illegal content on their App Store.

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The report states, “Apple pockets 30 percent of all profits stemming from the sale of digital books, both legal and illegal, in its online store. Most consumers are unaware that the books they are purchasing from the Apple Store are pirated.” 

The authors are now demanding $1.9 million from Apple as compensation.