BANGKOK, 13 September 2013 The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has confirmed that it is not authorized to launch a probe into a cable television company’s claim that Apple Inc violates its rights to broadcast the upcoming season of English Premier League football.
Cable company CTH filed criminal charges against Apple Inc and Apple South Asia (Thailand), demanding a compensation of 100 million baht for intellectual property violation. The legal action came after Apple’s online store made available for download an application called Sport Channel, which allows users to view live broadcasts of the football matches.
The DSI said Apple Inc is a company registered in the United States which is beyond the jurisdiction of Thai law. The agency noted that actions could be taken only if the broadcasts from the app are used for commercial purposes.
CTH has already sued more than 20 operators of Android set-top boxes, restaurants and shops since August 17 for airing its broadcasts without permission.
The DSI restated that legal action can be taken only if it is proven that these businesses violated the company’s rights on the commercial ground.
