Talk of Apple move for Sony dismissed

Helping to spark the speculation was a report that said cash-rich Apple could be contemplating a big acquisition and noted speculation about Adobe, Sony and Disney as potential targets.

But even the author of the report, Eric Savitz, sought to clear up misconceptions about any potential combination of Apple and Sony.

He wrote in a blog post on Barron's website: "In the piece I noted that the company could do something aggressive, like bidding for Adobe, Sony or even Disney. But that was pure speculation."

The issue about Apple's acquisition plans gained steam earlier this month when chief executive Steve Jobs was asked what the company would do with its $51bn in cash.

"We would like to continue to keep our powder dry, because we do feel that there are one or more strategic opportunities in the future," Mr Jobs said.

But analysts who follow technology downplayed the likelihood that Apple would chase Sony – or any other major acquisition.

"We don't see any acquisitions of any size," said Ashok Kumar, an analyst with Rodman & Renshaw in New York. "Apple is happy to keep its cash under the pillow."

Mr Kumar said a deal for Sony would be particularly unlikely.