Apple pressures accessory maker to change naming

Apple is requesting that Thought Out, a maker of iPod accessories, cease and desist the use of the word "iPed" in its product names. A letter from Apple Legal was sent to the company yesterday regarding the use of the word in the names of three iPod accessories made by Thought Out. According to Apple, the term "iPed" likely confuses the consumer and it also weakens Apple's brand strength, so that consumers will no longer be able to rely on the "marks" to identify authorized Apple products and services. Thought Out's position on this matter is currently neutral with "no wishes to construe Apple or any consumer of either product brand."

"We simple created a well received product for the iPod consumer (and other tech devices). The name iPed was derived from the word i-Ped-estal (with a definition posted on our website)(and now the home page)."

Thought Out's actions have "not been decided for Apple's request but feels that many uses of the word iPod, Pod, iPod Mini and iPod shuffle in other product brands and companies should know to others of such circumstances."

Filed under: iPod, industry