The rivalry between the two giant smartphone manufacturers apparently has more issues than just a device competition. Recently, Samsung finally gave in to Apple on the battle regarding patent issues.

According to FOSS Patents, Samsung was denied of their petition for an "en banc rehearing" about the patent issue of the "915 pinch-to-zoom API patent." The U.S. Court of Appeals for Federal Circuit denied Samsung of the motion to appeal on the legality of Apple seeking fines over patent issues. Samsung seems to be at the losing end as they are currently making arrangements to pay the last installment to Apple.

 

The half a billion figure, or approximately $548 million, has since been awarded to Apple, but Samsung believes that the figure will not totally go straight to Apple's funds as they still have the right for reimbursement.

The statement from the Supreme Court reads: "Samsung continues to reserve all rights to obtain reimbursement from Apple and/or payment by Apple of all amounts required to be paid as taxes. Samsung further reserves all rights to reclaim or obtain reimbursement of any judgment amounts paid by Samsung to any entity in the event the partial judgment is reversed, modified, vacated or set aside on appeal or otherwise, including as a result of any proceedings before the USPTO addressing the patents at issue or as a result of any petition for writ of certiorari filed with the Supreme Court. Samsung notes that the Patent Trial and Appeal Board has issued a final decision of invalidity on the '915 Patent, and Apple filed a notice of appeal to the Federal Circuit in the USPTO last week."

ArsTechnica says that Samsung is ready to pay once Apple sends out its invoice. The agreement to pay the said figure is bound to expire on Dec. 14, which means that Samsung must settle it on or before that date. Once the amount is settled, Apple will be directed to withdraw the case.

The $548 million is a cut-down from the original claim, which amounted to $930 million. This is after Apple won the two patent cases filed against Samsung. Samsung and Apple's representatives are scheduled to meet before Lucy Koh, a U.S. District Judge, discuss in detail the terms of the issue on Dec. 10.

What do you think of the staggering fine imposed on Samsung? Do you believe that the company committed a breach on patent?