Toshiba is talking about having Sony pay not just for the batteries it has recalled, but also for damage to its brand image (see story at http://www.informationweek.com/news/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=193302923 )
This seems to me like Toshiba is being opportunistic and trying to cash in on Sony’s troubles. Sony has admitted that its batteries have a problem and is paying for the batteries and the costs of all the recalls. Since it has affected a number of computer manufacturers, it doesn’t seem to me that Toshiba or any specific brand of computer is suffering a hit to their brand names. If anyone is suffering with regard to brand image, it is Sony.
In fact, I think that seeking damages against Sony in and of itself has the potential to cause consumers to have negative feelings toward the Toshiba brand. I would advise Toshiba to replace the batteries and just let it go.
What are others’ thoughts on this?