Anymode Smart Cover knock-off shows for Galaxy Tab

Korean company Anymode has produced a blatant copy of the iPad 2's Smart Cover for the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1. While it can't use magnets to wake the tablet like Apple's device, the Smart Case is otherwise a one-for-one imitation, complete with the folding, four-segment design and even five of the same colors. Its only difference is a basic shell to cover the Android tablet's back.

The Smart Case also has an unusually and potentially uncomfortably close connection to Samsung. Along with purported official Samsung certification, company chief Sang-yong Kim claims to be the nephew of Samsung chairman Kun-hee Lee. Anymode and its parent Youngbo Engineering make accessories for Samsung, such as Bluetooth peripherals and headphones.

It's possible Anymode is trying to associate itself with Samsung to gain legitimacy. Samsung hasn't commented on the apparent link.

If accurate, the presence of the Smart Case could well hurt Samsung's defense against Apple. Samsung didn't design the products itself, but its tacit approval of accessories meant to imitate iPad accessories might be useful as incidental evidence. [via 9to5]

By Electronista Staff