Samsung discontinues legal attempt to halt iPhone sales across Europe
Samsung has made a surprising move in its long-standing legal battle with Apple, withdrawing its lawsuit aimed at banning the sale of Apple's iPhone and iPad in European markets, including the UK. This decision comes after Samsung filed two complaints with the European Commission last year, alleging that the iPhone and iPad infringed its patented 3G technology.
The withdrawal of Samsung's legal bid does not indicate a resolution to the dispute between the two tech giants. It's important to note that the ongoing antitrust investigation by the European Commission against Samsung is still underway. The Commission launched the investigation in 2013, warning Samsung not to abuse its ownership of what are known as 'standard essential patents' (SEPs).
Florian Mueller, a technology analyst, has suggested that pressure from the European Commission was behind Samsung's decision. Mueller stated that while monetary compensation would not raise antitrust issues, sales bans do. He also suggested that Samsung could still seek monetary compensation from Apple.
Samsung's statement indicates a commitment to licensing its technologies on fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory terms. The company believes it is better for companies to compete fairly in the marketplace, rather than in court. In a similar turn of events earlier this week, an attempt by Apple to ban sales of Samsung's Galaxy devices in the US was overruled.
Interestingly, Apple, in response, did not file any counter-complaints against Samsung. This could suggest a strategic move by Apple to avoid further escalating the legal battle. However, no relevant information was found regarding who filed the request to lift the sales ban on Apple’s iPhone and iPad in European markets after Samsung withdrew its lawsuit.
It's clear that the tech industry is witnessing a shift in approach from these two companies, with Samsung focusing on fair competition and Apple choosing not to retaliate with counter-complaints. Whether this marks a new chapter in the Samsung-Apple saga remains to be seen.
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