I Don’t Think We’ll Be Seeing These Galaxy Tab Smart Covers Stateside

While I’m not quite ready to lay charges of criminal nepotism at Samsung’s feet (as 9 to 5 Mac and Gizmodo do gleefully, and not unreasonably), I do have to say that it seems a bit unwise, during high-stakes patent litigation, to lend their brand to such an incredibly blatant knock-off.

Apparently this “Smart Case” for the Galaxy Tab 10.1 is being sold in Samsung stores throughout Korea, where, perhaps, US patent law cannot reach. But would Apple have neglected to file for a patent in such a large market?

At all events it’s shameless (the cases may have been approved because of some personal connections within Samsung) and I don’t think this will be Samsung-approved for long. Knock-offs are a normal part of the tech world these days, but dignifying them with shelf space doesn’t have to be.