We've all heard about Apple suing Samsung because they were upset with how they designed their newest phones. The media made it seem like an all out war between the two where no one would back down and that Apple and Samsung were and have always been mortal enemies. However, after reading this article:
http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-57568584-37/tim-cook-reportedly-opposed-patent-suits-against-samsung/
it is clear the relationship between the two is much more intertwined, then at least I had previously thought. Seeing that Apple relied heavily on Samsung as a components supplier, the whole idea of going into court over a patent seemed ill-mannered to Tim Cook and Steve Jobs. It seems that in this case not everyone was interested in just spending huge sums of money to sue one another because it would do much more then just resolve a patent dispute, it would also strain personal and professional relationships. As mentioned in the article, Samsung and Apple began working very closely with each other and even the grandson of Samsung's founder ended up visiting Steve Job at home. However, since the two companies never reached a reciprocal patent agreement, they were unable to to come to an agreement and the trial would surely take place. Now, Apple is seeking ways to distance itself from reliance on Samsung parts. It is interesting to see how these two companies relationships have evolved over time, and clearly they're in a stage where they're not so close anymore.
Interesting--it makes you wonder if the long-standing relationships between Intel and companies like Dell and H-P might also come under pressure. More and more ARM chips are used in mobile wireless devises in lieu of Intel's Atom processors.
ReplyDeleteThe technology industry is fascinating, and it will be interesting to see where Apple decides to turn to find their components that Samsung used to provide. Likely in today's day and age it will not be too difficult to outsource manufacturing of components or purchase from a separate wholesaler.
ReplyDeleteVery interesting read. I never knew how complex those firms' relationship was. I wonder if either of them regret not reaching a reciprocal agreement in order to avoid all those very expensive lawsuits, especially since I read an article which stated how those companies spend more on patent law suits than research and developments.
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