Reuters has reported that South Korean electronics giant Samsung is preparing to file patent-infringement claims against Apple in France and Italy over some features of the new iPhone 4S. "Apple has continued to flagrantly violate our intellectual property rights and free-ride on our technology," the South Korean firm said in a statement. "We will steadfastly protect our intellectual property." For its part, Apple reportedly said that Samsung's Galaxy line of mobile phones and tablets "slavishly" copies its iPhone and iPad designs.
Further, the reporting notes that Samsung has emerged as the primary challenger to Apple's mobile devices, and that the two companies have sued each other in 10 countries involving more than 20 cases since April. The companies are vying for the top spot in the global smartphone market. However, the intensifying legal battle could conceivably threaten Samsung's telecoms and component businesses. As noted by Reuters, Apple is Samsung's largest customer in these areas -- mainly as a purchaser of chips and displays.
Full Story: Samsung targets iPhone 4S sales ban in France, Italy (reuters.com)
