Lawsuit Slams iTunes Allowance Feature

Apple has been targeted in yet another patent infringement lawsuit, this time regarding the allowance feature offered through iTunes. An iTunes Allowance allows users to send a monthly iTunes Store credit to a family member, friend, or colleague.

Restricted Spending Solutions has filed suit against Apple, claiming it developed a solution for a "controlled entertainment spending account" in 2001, a solution it gained patent of five years later.

The company claims Apple has had full knowledge of its patent since at least 7 July, 2005. It seeks damages for what the complaint terms "irreparable injury." It also wants Apple to stop offering allowances through iTunes.

The lawsuit was filed on Feb. 6.