Goliath picks on David: Samsung tells blogger to “cease and desisit”

Remember how excited I was about Samsung’s new M800 phone for Sprint that’s coming out soon? It seems like it might really rival the iPhone in technology and looks. But now I’m not sure if I’m still excited. It seems the blog, Mobiledia, has received a “cease and desist” order from Samsung regarding a blog post about the phone. The post included pictures and specs. Read more about it here.

According to the blogger: “The high-resolution images were obtained from Samsung directly, and rightfully, through a press account granted to me… I used my Mobiledia email to apply, and was granted a login/password and full access to high-resolution photos of upcoming, current and past mobile devices.  … My access was terminated as of yesterday.”

Sounds like really bad PR for Samsung. And they’re missing out on a great way to get the word out. Viral marketing is what it’s all about nowadays! Just check out all the irate comments added to the blog post and you’ll see how bad this is looking to customers. People are even talking about boycotting Samsung.

It reminds of Whataburger’s Christmas debacle, when one employee sent out a month of free coupons. When the leak was discovered the coupons were canceled. The story, of course, made it to the front page of my hometown’s newspaper (they don’t have much going on most days…) It’s even living on in infamy on Snopes.  (Side note: I forgave Whataburger when they mailed me 2 coupons for a free Whataburger. If you want a good takeout hamburger, Whataburger is the way to go.)

But back to Samsung… Once hailed as a potential “iPhone killer,” this phone is quickly becoming a PR killer instead.

 And for all those out there who are wondering if Sprint will be getting a REAL iPhone anytime soon… No. If you’re looking to upgrade, don’t wait around. Just get one of the alternatives instead: MotoQ9c, HTC Touch, Palm Centro, Blackberry Pearl, or this new Samsung phone.

And when IS the M800 coming out? No word yet. But I’ll be looking and will keep you posted.