Clean register
Apple’s approach is clear: it wants to prevent any brands from entering the register that could suggest an apple. Apple Inc. is particularly allergic to new trademark applications in the electronics sector (product class 9). The company is trying to keep that category completely “clean.” It’s not a bad strategy, if you don’t act and more apple-related registrations appear in class 9, your trademark rights could become diluted or weakened. And that’s not something you want to happen with such a global brand like Apple.
Deep pockets
We took a look at some of the ongoing apple-related legal cases. Below is a small selection of recent disputes that Apple is fighting (or has already fought) against “other apples.” The conclusion seems clear: stay away from the apple. Your chances of losing are pretty high. Not only is the Apple trademark one of the most well-known in the world with very broad protection, but the company also happens to have some of the deepest pockets in the world.
Bas Kist
