Apple is suing its rival Samsung Electronics for allegedly copying the design of its iPad and iPhone, particularly with respect to the look of its screen icons.
Samsung supplies Apple with microchips used in several Apple products as well as memory chips used in MacBook Pro computers.
Lawsuits abound in the world of phone makers and software producers. Nokia has sued Apple, which in turn has sued handset maker HTC Corp alleging patent infringement over the iPhone.
Apple is currently bringing 16 claims against Samsung, including trademark infringement and 10 patent claims and in October 2010, Apple sued Motorola, alleging its smartphones use Apple’s intellectual property.