Apple's fight with iPhone chip designer may have broader startup implications

A lawsuit by Apple Inc. against a former employee who helped design chips used in iPhones has been allowed to proceed in a case that could impact other Silicon Valley startups. Santa Clara County Superior Court Judge Mark Pierce last week issued a preliminary ruling in the lawsuit by Apple against Gerard Williams III. He said the case can proceed, but Apple can't collect punitive damages if it wins. The judge also dismissed Williams' claim that Apple invaded his privacy by reviewing text messages…