Apple and Samsung have an interesting relationship, which has gone from component supplier/supplyee to legal enemies. Samsung manufacturers various parts for Apple products inlcluding the famous A4 and A5 processors.
According to Engadget, Apple actually spent as much as $5.7 billion on Samsung parts last year alone. Now, Apple is pissed that Samsung is working on products that resemble the iPhone and iPad (who isn’t?). A choice line from Apple’s complaint:
“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, in violation of Apple’s valuable intellectual property rights.”
According to ThisIsMyNext.com, who has an extensive analysis of the case says Apple views the Samsung Captivate, Continuum, Vibrant, Galaxy S 4G, Epic 4G, Indulge, Mesmerize, Showcase, Fascinate, Nexus S, Gem, Transform, Intercept, and Acclaim phones, as well as the Galaxy Tab tablet offenders.
Samsung has responded, indicating pending counter-action. “Samsung will respond actively to this legal action taken against us through appropriate legal measures to protect our intellectual property,” Samsung said in a statement obtained by Agence France Presse.
Meanwhile, Apple has asked a judge to dismiss an antitrust case involving the company’s blocking of music downloads from competitors.