Apple vs. Samsung, Who Lost?
Samsung and Apple are two of the most popular smartphone and tablet manufacturers in the world right now, and the patent trial between them has driven many people’s attention recently.
Last Friday, a jury in California decided that, following a four-week trial, Apple should be awarded compensation for rivals Samsung copying their designs. Judge Lucy Koh ruled that Samsung should pay Apple $1 billion after the jury found Samsung infringed six of seven patents for its mobile devices. Even if Apple wins an injunction against the sale of those eight Samsung phones, it’s not likely to have much effect on the battle for market share between Samsung and Apple. The financial markets seem to have decided that the winner from Apple’s big victory in its patent trial against Samsung is Nokia . Shares of Apple rose nearly 2% Monday to close at $675.68, but shares of Nokia rose 5.5% to close at $3.25.
The verdict may lead to a ban on US sales of hand-held electronics that are deemed to violate Apple’s rights – although Samsung has said it will appeal against the ruling. “This decision should not be allowed to stand because it would discourage innovation and limit the rights of consumers to make choices for themselves,” said John Quinn, Samsung lead lawyer. “Today’s verdict should not be viewed as a win for Apple, but as a loss for the American consumer, It will lead to fewer choices, less innovation, and potentially higher prices. This is not the final word in this case or in battles being waged in courts and tribunals around the world, some of which have already rejected many of Apple’s claims.” Indeed, as Samsung said in this statement, buying the best product is consumers’ biggest concern.
An Apple iPhone 4S, left, and a Samsung Galaxy S3, right
PS: According to a notice Apple filed with the court, Apple wants the following eight smartphones banned in the US: Galaxy S 4G, Galaxy S2 (AT & T), Galaxy S2 (Skyrocket), Galaxy S2 (T-Mobile), Galaxy S2 Epic 4G, Galaxy S Showcase, Droid Charge and Galaxy Prevail.
