Last week we brought you news about Apple’s injunction against Samsung banning them from importing their new Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 into all European countries. Well, luckily for Samsung, an announcement has been released stating that Apple’s injunction, banning Samsung from selling their Galaxy Tab 10.1 across Europe, has now been temporarily lifted in all European countries except Germany. The injunction against Samsung Electronics GmbH, a German subsidiary of Samsung, still stands.
No details have been released as yet to why there has been a U-turn within the Düsseldorf district court about the applied injunction. But the lifting of the ban until after Samsung’s August 25th appeal hearing is good news for Samsung.
Background of the Legal Battle
The legal battle between Apple and Samsung has been ongoing, with Apple accusing Samsung of infringing on its design patents. The Galaxy Tab 10.1, in particular, has been a focal point of this dispute. Apple claims that the design of the Galaxy Tab 10.1 is too similar to that of the iPad, which has led to a series of legal actions across various countries. The injunction in Europe was one of the most significant moves in this ongoing battle, as it had the potential to severely impact Samsung’s sales and market presence in the region.
The Düsseldorf district court initially granted Apple’s request for an injunction, which effectively banned the sale and import of the Galaxy Tab 10.1 across Europe. This decision was a significant blow to Samsung, as the European market is crucial for the company’s tablet sales. However, the recent announcement that the injunction has been temporarily lifted, except in Germany, provides a glimmer of hope for Samsung as they prepare for their appeal hearing on August 25th.
Possible Reasons for the U-Turn
As explained, the reasons behind the change of decision are still unknown, but it is thought the reason is unlikely to be linked to the misleading images provided by Apple of the Tab 10.1 submitted for the case we featured this morning. The misleading images showed the Galaxy Tab 10.1 with altered dimensions, making it appear more similar to the iPad than it actually is. This revelation raised questions about the validity of the evidence presented by Apple.
Another possible reason for the U-turn could be down to confusions in language around “establishments” and “subsidiaries” between German and English, prompting the initial preliminary injunction. Legal terminology can often be complex and subject to interpretation, especially when translated between languages. This confusion may have led to the initial decision to grant the injunction, which has now been reconsidered.
Additionally, the court may have recognized the significant impact that the injunction would have on Samsung’s business and the broader market. Banning the Galaxy Tab 10.1 across Europe could limit consumer choice and stifle competition, which may not be in the best interest of the market as a whole.
As more information becomes available behind the reasons why the ban was lifted, as always, we will keep you updated.
Source: Slashgear
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
