Prank Call

(NEW YORK) Despite a report on Monday that Giorgio Armani was following in the footsteps of Prada's recently introduced LG cell phone and talking to Samsung about the formation of branded electronics, an Armani spokesman downplayed the rumor, saying, "It is speculation in the Korean marketplace. If we have new products to announce in new categories you will be among the first to know it." This, despite a Samsung spokesperson having told the Yonhap News agency in South Korea that "We are now in talks with Armani to work together in making premium goods such as mobile phones and televisions." If true, it would signify perhaps a blossoming trend between luxury Italian fashion houses and South Korean technology-based firms. According to the report, talks between Armani, whose brand extensions include handbags, shoes, and beauty products in addition to its ready-to-wear and Armani Privé couture collections, and Samsung have been going on for most of this year and are at a late stage in development. "Armani is expected to contribute designs and be actively involved in new product development," the report continued.