Joy and disappointment run amok as an episode concludes while another begins

Jul 24, 2012 12:06 GMT  ·  By

Another day has passed, which, naturally, means that there is something new but strangely familiar to report on in regard to that bizarre and ridiculous mess that is the Samsung vs. Apple patent war.

Before we go further, we ask readers to keep in mind that while “bizarre” was one of our labels, “ridiculous” was most assuredly not.

Also, that we approve of both sentiments is beside the point, something that the Dusseldorf Higher Regional Court in Germany tacitly agrees with, by our reckoning.

Instead of expressing similar misgivings with the nature of the trial, the court ruled on whether or not Apple was right in its patent infringement claims against Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 and Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1N.

In regard to the latter, the claims were dismissed, much to Samsung's satisfaction. Unfortunately for its nerves, the other device has been banned.

There was already a preliminary injunction in place, but it only applied to Germany. Unfortunately, the new one prevents Samsung from selling the item anywhere in the European Union.

"Samsung is disappointed with the court’s ruling [on Galaxy 7.7]. We will continue to take all available measures, including legal action, to protect our intellectual property rights and defend against Apple’s claims to ensure our products remain available to consumers throughout the European Union," the company reportedly said.

"Samsung welcomes the court’s ruling [on the Galaxy Tab 10.1N] which confirms our position that the GALAXY Tab 10.1N does not infringe Apple’s intellectual property and does not infringe laws against unfair competition. Should Apple continue to make legal claims based on such a generic design patent, design innovation and progress in the industry could be restricted."

Now we just have to wait and see how fast the Galaxy Note 10.1 gets slapped with a lawsuit when it comes out. We wouldn't be surprised if Apple was already preparing the territory for it.