Given the view that all smartphones basically sport the same plain, rectangle based form, news that Apple has decided to single out Samsung and sue the Korean giant for mirroring its designs is likely to shock many.

The Wall Street Journal reports that Apple is claiming that Samsung's range of Galaxy phones and tablets infringe on the firm's patents and trademarks for both iPhone and iPad.

Copying the competition

Seeking injunctions, actual damages and punitive damages, Apple claims Samsung's alleged infractions are intentional, resulting in unfair form competition.

"It's no coincidence that Samsung’s latest products look a lot like the iPhone and iPad, from the shape of the hardware to the user interface and even the packaging," an Apple representative told All Things Digital of the legal action.

"This kind of blatant copying is wrong, and we need to protect Apple’s intellectual property when companies steal our ideas."

Apple's action, which could well be the largest of its kind the industry has seen to date, also names Samsung's Epic 4G and the Google branded Nexus S.

The firm's IP claim criticises Samsung for failing to develop its 'own unique style' across its range of smartphones and tablets.

Two tribes

Indeed, the action goes beyond the actual physical form of the devices, wrapping up the delivery of the UI employed on the handsets, too.

"Samsung chose to copy Apple's technology, user interface and innovative style in these infringing products," the claim reads.

In response, Samsung claims it is set to fight Apple at every step.

"Samsung's development of core technologies and strengthening our intellectual property portfolio are keys to our continued success," the firm said in a statement.

"Samsung will respond actively to this legal action taken against us through appropriate legal measures to protect our intellectual property."

[source: All Things Digital]