Apple filed for a preliminary injunction on Friday in an effort to block the import of Samsung’s Android-based smartphones and tablets into the United States. The filing specifically targets the Galaxy S 4G, Driod Charge, Infuse 4G and Galaxy Tab 10.1, according to Foss Patents.
Apple’s filing in U.S. District Court in Northern California alleged that the devices infringe its patents for working with documents on touch-based displays, scrolling in lists, and device designs.
Apple looks to block Samsung smartphone imports
Apple and Samsung have been locked in a legal battle over patent infringement claims for several months. Both companies have alleged that the other’s mobile devices use patented technologies without proper licensing. Both have filed lawsuits in the U.S. and other countries.
“If Apple’s motion is granted, Samsung will be forced within a matter of a few months — possibly less than two months — to take it flagship Android-based products from the U.S. market,” said Florian Mueller on the Foss Patents Web site. “Just the possibility of this happening could lead Samsung to settle with Apple early on.”
Assuming the court grants Apple’s request, Samsung could take a major hit from lost sales since several of its products wouldn’t be available on store shelves at least until the two companies reached a settlement.
Apple is also hoping to speed up the trial process in its patent lawsuit against Samsung. The company is looking to present its case to a jury in February 2012, although there isn’t any guarantee the court will grant the request for an expedited trial.