Apple launches attack on Android and Samsung
by Steven Mostyn - Feb 13 2012, 16:27
Image: Google.
The latest twist in the ongoing courtroom saga of ‘Apple versus the world’ sees the Cupertino-based giant changing tactics by not targeting similarly designed rival hardware but rather by launching an attack against Google’s hugely popular Android operating system.
Although Apple’s latest loosing of its legal pack appears to be directed at version 4.0 of Android (a.k.a. Ice Cream Sandwich), the rabid jaws of said hounds are also indirectly snapping at Samsung’s flagship Galaxy Nexus handset—which, surprise, surprise, runs on Android 4.0.
Apple’s complaint concerns a number of its existing U.S. software patents, which it believes are being infringed upon by the most current iteration of Google’s operating platform—and any handset utilizing the software.
Some of the aspects Cook & Co. are taking issue with include sliding across the touchscreen to perform the unlock function, word prediction while typing, and also click-to-call via contact data detection in an email or on a Web page.
If the courts should rule in Apple’s favor on the matter, the Galaxy Nexus will be slapped with a preliminary injunction preventing its sale.
And, it’s worth pointing out that other handset makers that have also embraced Android 4.0 could soon find their smartphones facing a similar fruit-flavored attack.
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