It is interesting how patent and trademark laws work. It is even more interesting to see companies getting embroiled in issues regarding them. And such is the very first hurdle that the Apple iPad must overcome, the fact that Fujitsu already applied for the trademark over half a decade ago.
Fujitsu’s iPad is a handheld electronic device used by grocers to keep track of inventory; and the Japanese company is not the only one to have trademarked the name. Siemens has also trademarked iPad for some automotive parts and Canadian company Coconut Grove’s padded bras are also named iPads.
The most probable stand that Apple would take regarding this matter is that the iPad could not possibly be mistaken for the inventory checking device and would continue to use the name.
Anyway, aside from that little snag, the only other problem the iPad has had is from critics who cannot imagine how the new Apple tablet fits into our daily lives. Despite Steve Jobs’ commendable presentation skills, he also confused plenty of people by saying that the iPad is between a mobile phone and a net book.
Specs-wise, it is. But the iPad is more than that, the iPad is device meant to bring information and connectivity in a whole new way. This device comes with a 9.7 inch touch screen and a 1GHz A4 processor. It is able to run plenty of applications and browse websites with relative ease. Aside from the fact that it is really expensive and several patches short of being fully functional (no Flash support for now), it makes for an excellent instant access device. Expect future incarnations of the iPad to become a mainstay in the living room or the office desk.
Read more about Fujitsu’s trademark issues regarding the iPad brand from Times Online UK.
Tags: Apple-iPad