A Chinese smartphone maker has reportedly copied the new iPhone 5 design from all the leaked parts we have seen over the last few weeks, and they are releasing a device which apparently looks like the iPhone 5, but runs Google’s Android OS.
The Goophone I5, which you can see in the photo below, obviously borrows its design from the various iPhone 5 leaked parts. If this wasn’t enough, the company behind the device has apparently patented the design in China.
The Goophone I5 comes with a 3.5 inch display whilst the new iPhone 5 is rumored to come with a 4 inch touchscreen display. What is interesting is that if the company has patented the device in China, then there could be a possible lawsuit between the makers and Apple.
Design and Features
The Goophone I5’s design is strikingly similar to the rumored iPhone 5, featuring the same sleek lines and button placements. This level of mimicry extends beyond just the physical appearance; the Goophone I5 also attempts to replicate the user experience of an iPhone, albeit running on Android OS. This could potentially confuse consumers who might mistake the Goophone I5 for an actual Apple product.
The Goophone I5 is not just a one-off attempt at copying a popular smartphone. The manufacturer has a history of cloning devices from top manufacturers. For instance, they have previously released versions that closely resemble Samsung’s Galaxy S III. This pattern of behavior raises questions about intellectual property rights and the extent to which companies can go in replicating designs without facing legal repercussions.
Legal Implications
The fact that Goophone has patented the design in China adds another layer of complexity to the situation. If Apple decides to release the iPhone 5 in China, they could potentially face legal challenges from Goophone. This scenario is not unprecedented; Apple has previously faced legal issues in China over the iPad trademark, which resulted in a costly settlement.
Moreover, Goophone’s audacity doesn’t stop at copying designs. According to Wired, they are even using Samsung’s own press shots on their website to promote their cloned devices. This blatant use of another company’s marketing materials further complicates the legal landscape and highlights the challenges that major tech companies face in protecting their intellectual property in international markets.
The implications of such actions are far-reaching. If Goophone can successfully patent a design that closely mimics an unreleased product, it sets a dangerous precedent for other companies to follow suit. This could lead to a proliferation of counterfeit devices flooding the market, making it increasingly difficult for consumers to distinguish between genuine and fake products.
The Goophone I5 is a clear example of the challenges that major tech companies face in protecting their designs and intellectual property. The potential legal battles that could arise from this situation underscore the importance of robust intellectual property laws and the need for international cooperation in enforcing them. As consumers, it is crucial to stay informed and vigilant to avoid falling prey to counterfeit products that may not meet the quality and safety standards of the original devices.
Source TechMeme
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