U.S. import ban on some Samsung devices upheld

A U.S. Trade Representative has upheld an import ban on some Samsung devices that violate two patents from rival smartphone maker Apple.

In August, the International Trade Commission ruled Samsung infringed on two Apple patents related to older models of its Galaxy smartphones and tablets.

In a statement released Tuesday, U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman said he would allow the ITC's order to exclude imported products from Samsung that violate the patents.

Samsung spokesman Adam Yates says the company is "disappointed" by the decision. "It will serve only to reduce competition and limit choice for the American consumer."

Apple declined comment on Froman's decision.

On the same day as the ITC ruling, Apple secured a veto from the White House on a ban of older iPhone and iPad models that infringed on patents from Samsung.

Follow Brett Molina on Twitter: @bam923.