Apple reportedly is trying to block the distribution of a former employee’s book about its App Store, saying the Germany-based author reveals trade secrets that could harm the company’s competitive advantage, according to a report from Reuters.
Reuters describes Sadowski as a self-styled German rapper, ski instructor and marketing manager, while the book is called “part autobiography and part self-help guide for Generation Z readers looking to navigate their way into the tech scene.”
German publication Der Zeit writes that Sadowski and his publisher say that after the book was published in Germany this week, Apple’s lawyers sent a cease and desist letter that demanded they stop delivering the book to stores, recall all copies already sold, and destroy all manuscripts. Apple says it contains “business secrets” of “considerable economic value.”
While the book contains tips for app developers on how to pitch to Apple, along with details of Sadowski’s meetings with CEO Tim Cook, it reveals little to no secrets related to how Apple does business.
“I really enjoyed working for Apple […] I never had any intention of betraying any secrets or harming Apple, as anyone who has read the book will tell you,” Sadowski told Reuters. “But I also believe in the freedom of the press and freedom of speech and that every person and every company is equal before the law, and therefore I resist Apple’s demands.”
In a statement, Apple said it had long promoted a free press and supported authors of all types. “While we regret the way this longstanding Apple employee violated our working relationship, his actions left us with no other option but to terminate his employment — a decision agreed upon by the works council.”
The Kindle edition of the book was published Feb. 18 and was still for sale on Amazon.com as of Wednesday, the site reported. It appears it’s available only in German.
