We’re well used to hearing about Samsung’s attempts to stop sales of the iPad and iPhone across the globe, but one name we might well be hearing lots in future is Proview International. Who?
Proview International owns the name “iPad”, and while Apple has a deal to use the name in 10 countries, a verbal scuffle has broken out in China. Y’know, where a huge whack of the world’s iPads come from. Oh dear.
According to reports, Proview International is seeking to stop the import and export of iPads to and from China. A whopping 45 iPads were reportedly seized in China this week as a result of the disagreement. No, not 45,000. Forty-five. A box of iPads, essentially! Absolutely fantastic.
“We are applying to customs to stop any trademark-infringing products from imports to China and also for exports,” said Roger Xie, a lawyer representing Proview International. “Apple wants to postpone and continue infringement of the iPad in China.”
Carolyn Wu, a spokeswoman for Apple in China, said: “Proview refuses to honor their agreement with Apple in China. Our case is still pending in mainland China.”
Is this the end of the humble iPad? Nah, don’t be silly.
