Apple has once again returned to the courts in a bid to protect its IP, and this time it's accusing Samsung of ‘slavishly’ ripping off its phone and tablet designs. The litigation-happy tech firm claims the design of the Samsung Galaxy S phone and Galaxy Tab tablet infringe upon ten of Apple’s patents, which relate to the look and feel of its iPhone and iPad products.
The federal case, which Apple filed late last week in San Jose district court, states that ‘ Instead of pursuing independent product development, Samsung has chosen to slavishly copy Apple’s innovative technology, distinctive user interfaces, and elegant and distinctive product and packaging design.'
Apple Insider has published a snapshot (below) from the filing, which shows Apple's beef with Samsung in more detail. The page includes a number of comparative shots of the iPhone and the Samsung Galaxy S, presumably to demonstrate that the products are so similar that consumers could struggle to tell them apart - a key requirement of a design dispute.
The suit is the latest in a long string of patent disputes that Apple has brought to court with Amazon, Motorola and HTC all feeling the brunt of its legal team. It’s interesting that Apple has chosen to target Samsung, though, as the two companies share a close relationship. According to Engadget, Apple spent nearly $5.7 billion on Samsung parts in 2010. Whether or not this lawsuit is likely to affect that relationship remains to be seen.
Are we heading for patent meltdown, or is Apple perfectly within its rights to protect its IP at all costs? Let us know your thoughts in the forums.
Hello, my name is Jack Sparrow. I'm a 50 year old self-employed Pirate from the Caribbean. 
