A Dutch court has ruled South Korean technology giant Samsung did not infringe Apple’s patents by using multi-touch techniques on Galaxy smartphones and tablets.

Apple was ordered to pay legal costs of around 324,000 euros (US$421,000).

In August, Apple took a win over Samsung when a US jury ruled Samsung copied Apple’s patents, awarding the US technology giant with US$1.05 billion in damages.

Apple declined to comment on the ruling while Samsung said it welcomed the decision.

“The ruling affirms our position that our products do not infringe Apple’s intellectual property,” said Samsung spokeswoman.

“We will continue to further develop and introduce products that enhance the lives of Dutch consumers,” added the company.

A spokeswoman for the Court of the Hague said Apple can appeal the verdict.

GB