Apple vs Samsung

[Lateralus]

So by that logic grocery stores shouldn't be able to compete by providing the same products organised in similar ways?

I think you misunderstood my point. When a brand is obviously duplicating another brand's product it also creates unfair competition. Your analogy is just too broad with grocery stores. I am talking brands and you are talking ideas. Hence I used the term "features" and not "ideas" Brands are the product of tangible items that come together and provide a unique experience. Of course you can't patent the idea of a store but when we talk about logos, colors, slogans, etc- of course they can be patented.

Regulations are what prevent monopolies forming. Such as the current issue with Apple and Samsung.

Being able to provide essentially the same thing for a lower price is traditionally a great form of competition and makes markets more efficient.

I agree it is good to be able to buy a similar product for lesser price. However, then where's the motivation for businesses to invest into research in development when the market is so easy to enter? Ctrl+C & Ctrl+V is easier but is it ethical in business terms? Should any person that can invest money be able to copy your product?

It's like the difference between summarizing an idea and someone plagiarizing a book.

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Had a samsung, it broke.

Had an apple. It spoilt.