Apple COO Tim Cook made it clear during the company's first quarter earnings conference call that it will actively pursue anyone that tries to "rip off" intellectual property, and many assumed that comment was aimed directly at Palm and its new Pre smartphone. Palm, however, isn't worried and is certain it's ready to defend the Pre should a legal battle ensue, according to AllThingsD.

"We will not stand for having our IP ripped off and we’ll use whatever weapons we have at our disposal," to defend Apple's intellectual property Mr. Cook said. "I don’t know that I can be more clear than that."

While Mr. Cook didn't single out Palm and it's new handheld that sports many iPhone-like features, his message seemed to be directed that way.

Palm spokesperson Lynn Fox commented "Palm has a long history of innovation that is reflected in our products and robust patent portfolio, and we have long been recognized for our fundamental patents in the mobile space. If faced with legal action, we are confident that we have the tools necessary to defend ourselves."

The Pre isn't due to hit store shelves for some time, but that isn't stopping both Apple and Palm from posturing and tossing around rhetoric. Considering the laundry list of patents both companies hold, a legal battle over smartphone technology could become a long and ugly process for both sides.