Samsung returns fire with Apple, threatens counter-suit

Samsung claims Apple infringes on its patents

Following the news that Apple has launched a major lawsuit against Samsung claiming it has copied its technology and designs, Samsung has stated that it intends to launch a counter-action against Apple for infringing on some of its patents. "Samsung will respond actively to this legal action taken against us through appropriate legal measures to protect our intellectual property," an official statement from the firm reads. Further, the Samsung has seemingly made veiled threats that Apple’s lawsuit could result in further retaliation from the company, which is a key Apple component supplier.

"Apple is one of our key buyers of semiconductors and display panels. However, we have no choice but respond strongly this time," an unidentified company official is reported to have said. Apple is Samsung’s second biggest component client after only Sony and is reported to have purchased over $5.7 billion in Samsung componentry last year alone.

Apple’s suit contends that Samsung has copied Apple’s technology, user interface design, the style of its devices and even its packaging. Products cited in Apple’s claim include the Nexus S, Epic 4G, Galaxy S 4G and the Galaxy Tab. While it’s debatable how much the physical design of these products imitates Apple’s design language, the common element at the heart of the devices is Google’s Android OS.

Samsung now joins HTC in being subjected to an Apple lawsuit. Both companies have enjoyed tremendous success with Google’s Android OS and have contributed substantially to help Android surpass Apple’s iOS as the leading mobile platform in the US. [via Yahoo!]


By Carl W. Brooks
Editor, iamthereforeipad.com