What trademark infringement did Samsung commit according to the High Court ruling?

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Samsung Found Liable for Trademark Infringement Over Third-Party Apps on Smartwatches

The High Court in London ruled in 2022 that Samsung committed trademark infringement through third-party applications available on its smartwatches. These applications allowed users to replicate popular models from Swatch-owned brands, including luxury labels like Omega and Tissot. Swatch is now seeking US$170 million in damages from Samsung as a result of this infringement.
Replication of Popular Watch Models

The core of the trademark infringement case centres on third-party applications that were accessible on Samsung's smartwatches. These apps enabled users to create digital representations or "clones" of well-known watch models. This functionality directly impacted the intellectual property rights of Swatch's various brands, which include prestigious names such as Omega and Tissot.
High Court Ruling on Liability

In 2022, the High Court in London determined that Samsung was indeed liable for trademark infringement. This finding was based on the availability of these infringing applications on Samsung's smartwatch platform. The ruling acknowledged that Samsung's ecosystem facilitated the appropriation of protected trademarks belonging to Swatch's portfolio.
Swatch's Claim for Damages

Following the High Court's determination of liability, Swatch has formally lodged a claim for substantial damages. The Swiss watchmaker is seeking US$170 million from Samsung, arguing that this amount is commensurate with the alleged "large-scale appropriation" of its valuable and protected trademarks. Samsung, however, has reportedly described these demands as "extravagant."
Broader Implications and Parallel Claims

The legal proceedings, which commenced in 2019, also have implications beyond the UK, relating to infringement within the European Union. The Financial Times has reported that the forthcoming ruling on damages is expected to pave the way for a parallel claim against a Samsung subsidiary in the United States. This indicates the global reach of the dispute and Swatch's strategy to pursue legal recourse across multiple jurisdictions.

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What trademark infringement did Samsung commit according to the High Court ruling?

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