A Sony spokesman said that the matter would not be taken any further.

"We use different processes in making our products and do not infringe the patents," a Sony spokesman said.

A Sony spokesman in New York declined to comment.

"This appears to have been an isolated incident that occurred a year ago," a Sony spokesman said today.

A Sony spokesman noted that its tiny MP3 player could easily be moved to the wrist.

On Wednesday, a Sony spokesman said both exclusive and nonexclusive versions were selling equally well.

Mr. Morita is still in intensive care but has begun to speak and write a bit, a Sony spokesman said today.

A Sony spokesman said yesterday that the company would have no comment on the expected appointment.

A Sony spokesman said that despite Monday's setback, the company remained confident that its technology would win out.

A Sony spokesman said he was not familiar with the project.