Computer firm Apple Inc and Apple Corporation, which controls the rights to most of the music of The Beatles, have finally settled their long-running legal battle over the Apple brand.

Under the terms of the deal, Apple Inc will own all rights to the Apple brand for its products and the Apple iTunes service. Apple Corporation will license back some Apple brands where needed.

"We love The Beatles and it has been painful being at odds with them over these trademarks," said Apple chief executive Steve Jobs.

"It feels great to resolve this in a positive manner, and in a way that should remove the potential for further disagreements in the future."

The settlement may also be a precursor to seeing The Beatles on iTunes. No records by the Fab Four have yet appeared on any music download service.

Neil Aspinall, manager of Apple Corporation, said: "It is great to put this dispute behind us and move on.

"The years ahead are going to be very exciting times for us. We wish Apple Inc every success and look forward to many years of peaceful co-operation."