Samsung Sues Apple Over iPhone and iPad Patents

Samsung Electronics Co., the world's largest flat-screen panel maker, has sued Apple Inc., claiming the computer and phone maker infringed patents for technology used in its iPhone and iPad devices. The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Delaware, alleges that Apple has copied Samsung's innovations in its Apple iPhone, iPod and iPad products. This is the latest in a series of litigations between the two companies, which are vying for share of the mobile-device market. The dispute is global, with cases pending in at least four countries.

Key Takeaways:

  • Samsung has sued Apple in federal court in Delaware, claiming patent infringement on technology used in iPhone and iPad devices.
  • The lawsuit alleges that Apple has copied Samsung's innovations in its Apple iPhone, iPod and iPad products.
  • This is the latest in a series of litigations between Samsung and Apple, which are vying for share of the mobile-device market.
  • Cases are pending in at least four countries, including the United States, South Korea, Japan, and Germany.
  • Apple has a case pending against Samsung in South Korea, while Samsung has filed suits against Apple in San Francisco and South Korea.
  • The U.S. International Trade Commission has been asked to investigate the company's complaints against Apple, which could delay the suit.
  • The trade commission typically completes its reviews in 15 to 18 months.

Statistics:

  • Samsung is the world's largest flat-screen panel maker.
  • Apple is the world's largest technology company by market value.
  • At least four countries are involved in the litigation: the United States, South Korea, Japan, and Germany.
  • Cases are pending in federal court in Delaware, San Francisco, Oakland, California, and South Korea.
  • The U.S. International Trade Commission typically completes its reviews in 15 to 18 months.

Sources:

  • Bloomberg News
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