Quote:
Originally Posted by FanIn80
In other words, the "rectangles with rounded corners" slant to this story is bunk.
|
Well, no. They were absolutely granted a patent along those lines, but it was not entirely enforced by this court decision. Whether that means that patent is now invalid would be up to debate.
I'm actually not hardcore in the Samsung camp in this seemingly black/white debate. I do think they willfully copied some things, but I don't agree that all of them should be patent-able. Slide to unlock should not be something anyone could get a patent on. Its a common human behavior, although in virtual form. Their iPad design patent that is basically a claim to any logically designed tablet is just silly, and I'm very happy to see that it was not found to be infringed on. Samsung copying things that make
no sense to do any other way is a lot closer to the patenting round wheels on cars argument.
That said, aside from the "grid of icons" patent, Samsung had no need to rip off iOS. Stock Android looks very little like iOS, and was available for their use, FOR FREE! So not only were there other ways to make a mobile GUI, but it was actually more work for them to copy Apple's design. I have no problem with them getting smacked down for this.
I just don't like vague patents on common sense designs and normal human behavior. And yes, I blame the patent system for allowing this. Also, I just as I can admit that Samsung deserved some of what it got, even the most hardcore Apple fans should be able to admit that this jury appears to have made some pretty serious errors in following their instructions. Saying that doesn't mean that I love Samsung; it means I'm willing to look at facts.