Samsung (005930) and Apple (AAPL) have a rather unique relationship. The South Korean company supplies a number of components for the iPhone, making the two business partners. At the same time however, they are bitter rivals fighting over mobile market share and patents. Earlier this year, a court found that Samsung had infringed Apple’s protected technology, although the company appealed the ruling and remains confident that it will prevail — largely because it thinks Apple is clearly infringing upon its own technology
“The truth never lies. Without Samsung-owned wireless patents, it’s impossible for the Cupertino-based Apple to produce its handsets,” said Samsung’s mobile chief Shin Jong-kyun, according to The Korea Times. “As you know, Samsung is very strong in terms of portfolios of wireless patents.”
The executive’s remarks come following a decision by the U.S. International Trade Commission to review an earlier ruling that Apple didn’t infringe four of Samsung’s patents. The agency is expected to make a decision by January and if it rules in Samsung’s favor, the company would be able to ban sales of Apple’s iPad and iPhone in the U.S.
“The re-evaluation decision by the USITC doesn’t necessarily mean Samsung is better-positioned for the fight with Apple. But Samsung will do its best,” Shin said.
A company spokesperson later confirmed Shin’s comments, noting that Samsung’s legal team is “effectively responding to this fight” and that “a new trial for the case is a possibility.”
