You can read alot about it at theverge.com, they did a great coverage of this.
It's not just shapes.
Apple are suckers for doing the whole thing, but what really needs focus in this case is the patent system. Not Samsung or Apple and their pocket change.
Now kids.. Android AOSP is where the fun's at. Not OEM versions.
I will quote my self from similar blog considering apple v-shape patent here in Tek Syndicate " I em going to patent toilete and sue everybody for shitting in my patent grrrr. Thanks apple for great idea :-) "