Apple wins patent block on Samsung

A Dutch court has awarded Apple an injunction to stop its rival Samsung from marketing three smartphone models, including its Galaxy S, after alleging a breach of patents.

Although the injunction will not come into force until 13 October, it could affect the UK as Samsung uses the Netherlands to import goods into Europe, and its Dutch subsidiaries will not be able to export the models to a number of European countries as a result.

Patents have become a key battleground for phone companies, with Apple and Samsung in particular jostling for top spot in the smartphone market relinquished by Nokia.