A new report says Android creator Google is working with smartphone maker Samsung “to create a united front” in the face of legal challenges from Apple.
Samsung has confirmed that it is working with Google to fend off patent infringement claims made by Apple, according to The Korea Times. The announcement marks the first time that Samsung has confirmed it is receiving assistance from Google in its legal battle with Apple.
Google publicly announced years ago that it was supporting Android smartphone maker HTC after the company was hit with a lawsuit from Apple. Google has not publicly indicated that it had any such agreement with Samsung as its global patent infringement disputes with Apple have moved forward.
Samsung reportedly hopes that the assistance from Google will give the electronics maker a boost in the courtroom battles with Apple. The Times quoted an unnamed Samsung official as saying the company hopes to earn royalties from Apple.
“The fight is becoming more dramatic and the possibility of a truce in the form of a cross-licensing deal seems to be becoming likely,” they were quoted as saying.
Another industry source was quoted as saying that Apple’s newly acquired injunction barring sales of the Galaxy Tab 10.1 will cost Samsung about $80 million. Apple also won another injunction against Samsung’s Galaxy Nexus smartphone.
