The case began when Apple Computer sued several unnamed individuals, called "Does," who allegedly leaked information about an upcoming product to online news sites. Apple had successfully argued in a trial court that the publishers be forced to reveal their sources.

    But the three-judge panel in San Jose on Friday overturned the trial court's ruling, saying that online and off-line journalists were equally protected under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

    The ruling also states that Web sites are covered by California's shield law protecting the confidentiality of journalists' sources.

    If upheld, the ruling could have a far--reaching impact in California courts on other writers who publish electronically, including bloggers who regularly post news and opinion online without the backing of a mainstream news operation.

    Apple did not comment on the ruling or the possibility of an appeal. Enditem

    (Agencies)