by Alison Kosik
(CNN) – Tech giants Apple and Samsung are heading to federal court in a battle that’s being called the patent trial of the century. The companies are fighting over whose s smartphone and tablet designs came first.
Apple claims Samsung deliberately copied its iPhone and iPad design and some of the features. Apple is asking for $2.5 billion in damages.
On the other side, Samsung claims Apple is the one doing all the copying. The South Korean company said Apple’s inspiration for its iPhone came from Sony.
Samsung also claimed that by initiating this lawsuit, Apple is trying to stifle competition and limit consumer choice. A judge already banned a version of Samsung’s Galaxy tablet until this dispute gets sorted out.If Samsung is found guilty of infringement, then more of its products could be banned here in the United States or might have to be redesigned.
For Apple, a loss could mean tougher competition. Apple’s iPhone was once the market leader, but Samsung’s smartphone are now outselling the iPhone.
Ultimately, it’s a case that will determine which company was the real innovator and that can have a big impact on the tech industry and what features you see on your gadgets.
