The Obama administration has overturned a U.S. trade panel’s ban on imports of some Apple iPads and older iPhones into the United States, dealing a setback to Apple’s rival, Samsung.
 
U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman Saturday overturned the ban, which the U.S. International Trade Commission had announced June 4, saying some Apple products violated a patent owned by Samsung.
 
In a letter to ITC Chairman Irving Williamson, Froman said this policy decision was not an endorsement or a criticism of the commission’s decision or analysis. He also said Samsung could continue to pursue its case through the courts.
 
This was the first time since 1987 that a U.S. administration had taken action against a product ban that the ITC had ordered. The ITC ban was to have taken effect August 4.
 
Apple welcomed Saturday’s decision, while Seoul-based Samsung said it was disappointed.
 
The two companies have taken their disputes to courts around the globe.
 
Last year, Samsung was ordered to pay Apple $1 billion in damages for patent infringements. A judge later reduced the award.
 
Some information for this report was provided by AP, AFP and Reuters. [Read More]

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Source: VOA News: Economy and Finance