RJI's Fidler testifies during Samsung tablet trial

"Jurors in Apple suit hear Fidler’s tablet story," Columbia Tribune, August 16, 2012.

A Columbia man this week provided testimony that could shatter Apple's claims that Samsung stole its idea for a tablet computer.

The story appeared in the media outlet above.

Roger Fidler is director for digital publishing at the University of Missouri's Reynolds Journalism Institute. He testified in writing and on video about the idea he pitched nearly 20 years ago for a tablet-size interactive device he believed would one day replace printed newspapers.

Last year, Apple filed a federal lawsuit alleging Samsung violated its intellectual property rights. Apple is claiming at least $2.5 billion in damage for patent and trade infringement, the San Francisco Chronicle reported this week. In the lawsuit, the company contends that its 2007 iPod touch and 2010 iPad were revolutionary and radical ideas and that Samsung chose to "slavishly copy Apple's innovative technology, distinctive user interfaces and elegant and distinctive product and packaging design."

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