The US Patent and Trademark Office issued a preliminary ruling against Apple's "pinch-to-zoom" patent, which Apple used as a cornerstone of its case against Samsung Electronics. The agency rejected all claims in Apple's patent, according to a document issued by the patent office that was filed by Samsung in federal court in California, the Wall Street Journal reports. The document lists portions of the patent that were struck down on reexamination, on the basis that prior patents covered the same inventions, making the technology not patentable. Apple can still appeal if the patent office decision becomes final, and potentially salvage its patent. But if it is unsuccessful, the decision could impact the damages Apple is awarded. Samsung said the development supports its request for a new trial.
