When the iPad 2 launched in March, Apple also introduced its new Smart Covers. The bendable, flexible, and incredibly thin screen protectors quickly became a hot item and synonymous with the iPad – which is why the Smart Case for Samsung tablets is hard to pass off as an original idea.
Anymode’s Smart Cases are nearly identical to Apple’s Smart Covers, and Samsung is trying to distance itself from the copycat product. “As a general practice, Samsung Electronics reviews and approves all accessories produced by partners before they are given the ‘Designed for Samsung Mobile’ mark. In this case, approval was not given to Anymode for the accessory to feature this official designation. We are working with Anymode to address this oversight and the product has already been removed from the Anymode sales website. The product has not been sold.”
So it sounds like Samsung’s done everything possible to distance itself from the patent-happy wrath of Apple. But before we completely give them a pass, 9to5Mac points out that Anymode and Samsung have an interesting relationship. The Anymode CEO is related to Samsung chairman Kun-Hee Lee. While that’s not a confirmation of Samsung involvement, it’s certainly enough to raise a few eyebrows.
Still, seeing as the Smart Case has been pulled without so much as a sale, we’re inclined to say no harm, no foul – only some minor embarrassment for Samsung. The Galaxy Tab manufacturer is already up to its neck in legal battles with Apple regarding patent issues and the last thing it needs is to look like it tries to pass iOS innovation off as its own.
