Apple could face legal action from Fujitsu over the name ‘iPad’. As we reported previously Apple recently asked for an extension to battle Fujitsu for the product name but Fujitsu could now stage a fight back…
Though Apple introduced the Apple iPad on Wednesday, other firms have held the iPad trademark, most notably Fujitsu which launched a mobile, touchscreen iPad device for use in retail stores back in 2002.
Fujitsu’s director of public relations, Masahiro Yamane, told the New York Times that the company believes it still owns the ‘iPad’ name and is consulting its lawyers.
Apple has faced similar naming conflicts in the past. In 2007, the introduction of the Apple iPhone led to a clash with Cisco who had introduced the Linksys iPhone three weeks earlier. The court case ended in a settlement with both companies able to use the name.
Apple has until February 28 to make its case for ownership of the ‘iPad’ trademark but it is likely that the legal process will take longer. The most likely outcome is a settlement between Fujitsu and Apple.
Other companies who have previously filed trademark applications for the iPad include a Siemens which sells iPad engines and motors and a Canadian lingerie company which makes ‘iPad’ padded bras.
In the wake of widespread mocking of the Apple iPad’s name, Apple may wish it had opted to call it the iSlate, iTablet or simply Apple Tablet. It currently owns the iSlate trademark.
Due March | £TBA | Apple (via AppleInsider)
