Update from CNET:
http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-57...ook-execs-say/
Quote:
Both publisher CEOs also testified that Apple kept them updated about negotiations with other publishers. Apple didn't spell out the terms of the other deals, they said, but based on conversations with the company, they knew it was pursuing similar agreements with all publishing houses. It also told them how many deals it had signed, and they were able to figure out who the other parties were.
Apple and the DOJ face off over e-book prices (FAQ)
Confused by this complicated case? CNET explains it all.
"At the first meeting, [Apple executive Eddy] Cue said Apple was trying to do the same deal with everybody," Shanks said Tuesday.
And the Justice Department cited an e-mail from Reidy to Apple's Cue that said she would "look forward to an update on your progress in herding us cats." She admitted that Cue had told her how many other companies had reached deals with Apple.
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In other words, Apple served as architect and coordinator of the price fix so all the publishers could rest assured the others were onboard.
Yup, that is classic hub and spokes conspiracy.