Net jukebox firm wins patent ruling

A federal court has ruled that Internet jukebox company Ecast has infringed on a patent rival TouchTunes Music holds. The companies both operate by putting their products in bars and other retail outlets, where the jukebox plays downloaded digital music in place of physical CDs or records. TouchTunes is seeking an injunction against further distribution of Ecast's infringing products, as well as damages.

Ecast has recently begun experimenting with providing wireless Net access through its jukeboxes. The service is available free in several test locations in San Francisco and elsewhere in the United States.