The seven-year trial between Apple and Samsung is coming to an end as Apple will receive $539 million in damages for Samsung’s infringement of iPhone’s design and utility patents.
Starting in 2011 and continuing through endless appeals and verdicts, the trials saw Apple demanding $2.5 billion in damages for Samsung stealing their rounded corners, the rim that surrounds the front face of the iPhone and the app grid layout from the iOS home screen. Although some judges ruled in Apple’s favor, the figure was reduced to $539 million after lengthy court battles. Apple also received another $120 million last year for their patented iOS slide-to-unlock mechanic.
However, Apple says that “this case has always been about more than money,” pointing out their commitment to innovation: “We believe deeply in the value of design, and our teams work tirelessly to create innovative products that delight our customers. […] Apple ignited the smartphone revolution with iPhone and it is a fact that Samsung blatantly copied our design. It is important that we continue to protect the hard work and innovation of so many people at Apple,” said the company.
Samsung seemed unhappy with the ruling, indicating that they’re going to explore all legal options: “Today’s decision flies in the face of a unanimous Supreme Court ruling in favor of Samsung on the scope of design patent damages. We will consider all options to obtain an outcome that does not hinder creativity and fair competition for all companies and consumers,” declared Samsung after the trial.
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