Apple files with ITC to block import of Samsung Galaxy products

Apple has filed a complaint with the ITC that seeks to block the import of Samsung phones tablet computers, reports Bloomberg. This mirrors the complaint filed by Samsung to block the import of Apple’s iPhone and iPad and comes just a few days after Apple’s application for a motion of injunction against the sale of Samsung products like the Galaxy S 4G, Infuse 4G, Droid Charge and Galaxy Tab 10.1 until a patent infringement trial can be held.

The ITC case could be heard within 18 months if the commission chooses to investigate further. This complaint, submitted yesterday, effectively gives Apple two different avenues by which it can block the sale of Samsung devices in the US, by import via the ITC or in the civil courts by means of the motion for injunction, which Apple and Samsung have been instructed to set a timeline for that they can both agree on.

Apple’s motion for injunction sets forth its position that Samsung has ‘slavishly’ copied the design of the iPhone and iPad in the creation of the Galaxy Tab, Infuse 4G and other products.

Samsung believes that “There is no legal basis for [the motion for injunction] by Apple. We will continue to serve our customers and sales of Samsung products will proceed as usual.” Adam Yates, Director of Corporate Communications for Samsung North America told us, “Samsung will continue to actively defend and protect our intellectual property to ensure our continued innovation and growth in the mobile communication business.”