The Times: Fujitsu claims iPad name after Apple launch

Posted: 28/01/10

Fujitsu has taken some of the shine off Apple’s iPad euphoria after pointing out that it has already applied to trademark the name to use for a handheld computing device.

Fujitsu, the Japanese technology company, applied to use the iPad name in 2003 to brand a model of handheld devices used in American grocery stores to monitor stock levels, although its application with the US Patent Office is still outstanding.

The brand has also been trademarked in other countries, although Apple’s new gadget is unlikely to infringe on the rights of Siemens, which uses the name for automotive parts, or Coconut Grove, a Canadian lingerie company, which uses the name for padded bras.

Apple is likely to argue that its new tablet-style computer and Fujitsu’s device are different products serving distinct markets and has indicated in filings to the US Patent Office that it may oppose Fujitsu’s right to use the name.

The situation is reminiscent of problems the Californian tech company hit three years ago when it had to negotiate a settlement with Cicso, the communications equipment maker, to use the iPhone name.

Lawyers representing Fujitsu said that Apple had yet to make direct contact with the company regarding the potential trademark stand-off.

“We are currently discussing our options with our trademark counsel and have no further comment at this time,” Fujitsu said in a statement.

Apple’s launch of the iPad this week has created an unprecedented wave of hype, with many analysts quick to deem the light-weight device, which sits between a smart-phone and a netbook computer in terms of functionality, as the potential saviour of the publishing sector.

The iPad, which will be priced between $499 and $699 (£307 and £430), depending on the amount of storage, is seen as extending Apple’s lead at the premium end of mobile devices.

David Bailey, a Goldman Sachs analyst, predicts that six million units will be sold this year.

However, CCS Insight analysts were more sceptical of the new segment pitched between smartphones and netbook computers.

“Essentially, it’s a supersize iPod Touch that would get little interest if not from Apple,” they said.

SOURCE: The Times
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