It's ironic that a company as innovative as Apple Computer could have such a regressive view of the changing world of American media.
The company, led by Chief Executive Steve Jobs, won a round in its quest to force three Apple (nasdaq: AAPL - news - people )-enthusiast Web sites to disclose their sources on articles they published regarding unannounced Apple products. In court filings the company argued that the Web sites were not protected by free speech because they are not legitimate members of the press.
The ruling, if it stands, will have a chilling and potentially devastating effect on not only blogs, which are growing in stature and prominence, but online media in general.
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