Question

can someone please explain to me apple vs. samsung (2011)

Answer 1

Basically it came down to Apple accusing Samsung of copying the design and look of its iPhone device for its own lineup (such as for its Galaxy S Android device). This was also something of an awkward case as Samsung is also listed as a parts supplier for Apple.

Here's an article that reports on it from last year:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703916004576271210109389154.html

And here's a huge timeline of updates concerning the case:
http://www.theverge.com/apple/2011/11/2/2533472/apple-vs-samsung

Right now, it looks like both companies have been ordered to mediation in order to settle the matter.