Apple’s latest move (against Samsung) is (filing) an injunction against them in order to attempt to ban their products from being imported into America…
Okay; let’s say that actually happened (which is highly unlikely) it still doesn’t stop the simple reality that there are countless products (by Samsung) already in the market and being used by who knows how many consumers (in the US and globally). Conversely with Samsung staking a public goal to become the largest handset maker (worldwide) within the next few years; should it really come as any surprise that they’d ‘model’ their products after the current industry leader?
Moreover; as it was once said, “imitation is the highest form of flattery” which ultimately means that regardless of the creator be it (Apple or Alta Vista) in technology and/or even with a product such as a guitar (in the examples of Fender or Gibson) whenever a first-mover redefines any given market it’s inevitable that others will follow-suit (and, in many instances, often copy outright).
Ideally, Apple will just keep pushing the envelop (as a way to both stay ahead of their competition as well as set a standard that others will be challenged to emulate) versus going the route of Microsoft (or a host of other technology firms): growth through acquisition whereas they’re not really innovating but further consolidating their respective industries (thereby actually hindering creativity, and, by extension, innovation).
From the WSJ: http://goo.gl/6lP6f