patent wars
Here we are, Samsung v Apple part….honestly I’ve lost count. But this is the damages retrial between Samsung and Apple. During the trial we’ve seen accusations of racial bias and claims that the iPad Mini wasn’t inspired by the success of 7-inch tablets. But now we’re at the bottom of it, and Samsung owes Apple $290 million in damages, for infringing Apple’s patents.
Back in August of 2012, a different Jury had found Samsung guilty of infringing Apple’s patents, with a wide range of devices being guilty. Samsung had initially been ordered to pay Apple $1.049 billion in damages, but after further legal wrangling, Judge Lucy Koh determined that the jury had incorrectly determined the amount of damages, and thus lowered the amount to under $600 million. That balance was the subject of the damages retrial that’s been taking place up until today.
On Tuesday, the jury had gone into deliberations, and we didn’t think they’d be back with a verdict this week. But just a little while ago, the jury made their decision. Basically Samsung is guilty and will have to pay up about $290 million to Apple. Now realistically, that’s chump change for Samsung. They probably make that much in a day. But it’s still $290 million less than they had before. What was interesting is that before the verdict was read off, the jury had been going back and forth over their lunch menu. Also before coming out to read the verdict, one of the jury’s last requests was that they be provided with a copy of the courtroom artist’s depiction of them. Which was kind of weird, or different. But worth noting.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that this $290 million that Samsung owes Apple is on top of the $600 million they already had to pay. Which means Samsung will be paying about $890 million to Apple. Not bad for Apple, but it’ll definitely hurt Samsung a bit.
The attorneys for both sides will have 30 minutes to review the jury’s findings, then they’ll reconvene to discuss any questions or concerns there might be. We’ll be sure to keep everyone updated.