Off Topic: Apple Sues Samsung Over Smartphones and Tablets

Image courtesy of Geekword.net

We don't normally report off topic news, but this is a big one and it could have a huge effect on one of Microsoft's key Windows Phone partners. Word just broke out that Apple is suing Samsung, accusing them of copying their, "technology, user interface and innovative style". While this is more of an Android-related story than a WP7 one since the suit explicitly mentions the Galaxy S smartphones and tablets, the fact of the matter is that if Apple hits Samsung hard with this suit it could have big consequences for all of the Korean manufacturer's smartphones.

However, unless they are withholding further accusations that were not made public, the grounds Apple has provided for suing are pretty weak. There is clearly a noticeable difference in the way Android and iOS function and the courtroom may find the claim of copying their "style" to be too intangible to measure in damages. Judging from that, one would think that this case may actually just settle between the two companies albeit with Samsung likely losing a chunk of change in the process.

On the contrary, Apple has plenty of reason to pursue this lawsuit for as long as they need to. The Galaxy S line (which the Samsung Focus is a descendant of) sold over 10 million devices worldwide in 2010 and has helped solidify Samsung's position in the smartphone industry. Considering that and if the courtroom sways in Apple's favor, there could be grounds for a massive lawsuit here.

Source: Engadget