Samsung sued in US over Galaxy Z Fold and Flip lineup

In a federal court in Texas, Lepton Computing, a relatively small firm, has sued Samsung for patent infringement that goes straight to the heart of its foldable ambitions. According to the complaint (via seoul wire), Samsung’s entire Galaxy Z Fold and Flip lineup, along with the now-sold-out TriFold, take on Lepton’s nine patents related to core foldable smartphone technology.

What makes this particularly shocking is how far this claim actually goes. These patents explain the basics – hinges, sensors, apps that shift between the internal and external screens, and even how everything from cameras and magnets to speakers is packed into that tight-folding body. So, Lepton is actually suggesting that the foundation for the foldable was laid by the company itself.

The timing of Lepton’s claims raises some serious questions. according to seoul wireThe first of the nine patents in question was only registered in June 2021, nearly two years after Samsung shipped its first Galaxy Z Fold in September 2019.

It seems that Lepton itself is aware of that difference, which is why it has cleverly excluded the original Fold and the first two Flip models from its infringement claims. But can a patent granted after a product is already on the market be considered an original invention? Historically, this is not an easy argument to put forward.

Lepton is seeking a permanent injunction in the US against Samsung’s foldable phone based on willful infringement along with damages, royalties and treble damages (the legal penalty requires the defendant to pay three times the amount of actual damages). That’s a high hurdle to clear.

Samsung has not yet responded publicly to the lawsuit. Although the company is no stranger to patent disputes, it remains to be seen how this case will pan out.