Apple Faces Ban on Older iPhones and iPads

Several older Apple iPhone and iPad models infringe on a patent held by Samsung, a judge at the U.S. International Trade Commission said on Tuesday. In a final ruling (PDF), the ITC said Apple infringes on a Samsung patent related to cellular technology with AT&T models of the iPhone 3GS and 4, along with 3G models of the iPad 1 and 2. As part of the ruling, the ITC has issued a limited order to ban those devices from sale in the U.S. The decision is final, however Apple can appeal it to the Federal Circuit, or bid for a reprieve from the White House, which has the power to approve or disprove of the ruling.

"We believe the ITC's Final Determination has confirmed Apple's history of free-riding on Samsung's technological innovations," Samsung said in a statement. "Our decades of research and development in mobile technologies will continue, and we will continue to offer innovative products to consumers in the United States."

Apple said it was disappointed in the ruling and plans to appeal it.