Fujitsu may sue Apple over the iPad name; a Windows-based iPad dates from 2002
By Ilinca Nita on 28 Jan 10Fujitsu, one of Japan’s largest computer hardware and IT services providers, could sue Apple over the iPad name.
Back in 2002, the Japanese company launched a Windows CE.NET 5.0 “handheld computing device for wireless networking in a retail environment” in the US, and decided to name it iPad.
In 2003, Fujitsu applied for trademarking the iPad name (see the application here), but its request was suspended by the US Patent and Trademark Office, because there was yet another company that filed for the same trademark before (in 2000). Mag-Tek is the company, and its iPads were “keypads for entry of personal identification numbers in e-commerce” – see the application here.
Although the USPTO has abandoned Fujitsu’s application at one point, the Japanese company filed for a revival in 2009.
According to the Financial Times, Fujitsu declared:
“We are aware of Apple’s iPad announcement and the possible infringement on our trademark. We are currently discussing our options with our trademark counsel and have no further comment at this time.”
In case you’re wondering, this is what the Fujitsu iPad looks like:
The device features a touchscreen, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth – just like Apple’s iPad.
We’ll probably find out soon if Fujitsu sues Apple, or if the companies reach an agreement.
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