What a precious name

Apple may have mistakenly bought the iPad trademark from the wrong owner – and that could cost them dearly.

In an escalating dispute, a China-based company has asked authorities to ban Apple’s iPad from being exported from China, where it is manufactured.

Technology company Proview registered the iPad trademark back in 2001. Although Apple bought the rights from Proview’s Taiwan subsidiary for use in 10 countries, the mainland company says it still owns the rights in China.

The Chinese court has ruled in Proview’s favour. While Apple has filed an appeal, Proview is threatening to sue for US$2 billion after calls for a settlement were ignored.

It all goes to show how tricky it is to deal in trademark laws. Maybe there’s an app for that.