Apple Loses iPhone Trademark Case In China To Leather Goods Company
Apple loses trademark case in China after which local leather goods retailer, was allowed to use “iPhone” on its leather goods. The decision was announced by the Beijing Municipal High People’s Court. It’s the most recent of Apple’s challenges in China.
In a statement, Apple said it was disappointed with the ruling. “We intend to request a retrial with the Supreme People’s Court and will continue to vigorously protect our trademark rights,” the company said. Xintong Tiandi sells handbags, mobile phone cases and other leather goods branded with the name “IPHONE”, close to Apple’s iPhone mark, and the “R” registered trademark symbol. This matter was being contested since 2012.
The Beijing court dismissed Apple’s appeal, saying that Apple could not prove it was a well-known brand in China before Xintong Tiandi filed its trademark application in 2007.
