Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 Escapes Ban in the U.K.; Judge Says 'not as cool' as iPad

[dgstorm]

Apparently, the judges in the United Kingdom have a bit more sense than some of the judges in the United States. U.K. Judge Colin Birss, denied Apple's requested ban on the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1. He indicated that consumers were unlikely to confuse the Galaxy Tab 10.1 with the iPad because the Galaxy Tab is "not as cool" as the iPad. Here's a quote,

The Galaxy tablets “do not have the same understated and extreme simplicity which is possessed by the Apple design,” Birss said. “They are not as cool.”

While his taste in tablets could be debated, his point is perfectly valid; that Apple is highly unlikely to be harmed at all by the presence of the Galaxy Tab 10.1 in the market. Most consumers are informed enough to know the difference between the tablets, because the Apple iPad is so well known. Additionally, the judge decided Samsung’s products were distinctive enough because they are thinner and have “unusual details” on the back.

Samsung made the following statement in regards to the ruling, “Should Apple continue to make excessive legal claims in other countries based on such generic designs, innovation in the industry could be harmed and consumer choice unduly limited."

The judge gave Apple 21 days to file an appeal if they choose to do so.

Source: Bloomberg

[furbearingmammal]

Personally I think they're cooler, but I'm biased against Apple. And against a 4:3 aspect ratio now that I have a widescreen TV, computer monitor, laptop, phone, etc.

[sauspud]

living in the UK has its benefits. I love my Tab 10.1 and everyone I know with an iPad who sees my tab wants one instead.