A couple of supposed Apple leaks have been distributed over the net over the past week. Rightfully so, each time people question the authenticity of the images that are “leaked”.
In the first instance, some iPod user interface videos were leaked (and later pulled)
In the second, photos of a keyboard purporting to be an unreleased slim iMac keyboard was revealed (and never pulled).
With any supposed image leak, many self-proclaimed experts come out of the woodwork dissecting the images and video with “proof” about why said image is real or fake. For the record, in these instances, the general initial response leaned towards the iPod UI videos being fake (not designed by Apple) and the Keyboard being real (designed by Apple).
This general impression continued despite Apple’s Legal involvement with the iPod UI interface videos, and a notable lack of intervention with the iMac Keyboard photo.
In reading through comments across the web, there were some common claims. I’ve taken samples of these and quoted them here:
1. “Apple were probably the ones that requested this fake news be taken off the website” - GreenAlien
2. “Folks, Apple Legal always gets involved” - tobsterius
3. “…though it should be noted that Apple Legal has previously sought to squelch rumors of products that never materialized. The failed attempt to sue sources from the supposed “Asteroid” breakout box for GarageBand comes to mind.” - Charles Jade/Ars Technica
If you read on, I’ll show that, historically…
1) Apple Legal never gets involved for Images/Video of Fake Products
2) Apple Legal always gets involved for Images/Video Real Products
3) Apple Legal never asked Asteroid information to be pulled
(more…)