Apple Takes Control of 'TabletMac' Trademark [Archive]

MacRumors

Nov 30, 2009, 08:35 AM

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/11/29/apple-takes-control-of-tabletmac-trademark/)

A couple of years ago, a company called Axiotron (http://www.axiotron.com/) announced an aftermarket modification for the MacBook that converted the Apple laptop into a tablet. The modification remains for sale at $699 and takes a stock MacBook, removes the keyboard and screen, and adds a Wacom pen-based screen to give the device a tablet form factor.

http://images.macrumors.com/article/2009/11/30/030412-tab2.jpg

Axiotron Modbook
Axiotron originally began marketing the devices as a "TabletMac" as referenced in this 2007 press release (http://www.axiotron.com/index.php?id=36&tx_ttnews[pS]=1185951600&tx_ttnews[pL]=2678399&tx_ttnews[arc]=1&tx_ttnews[tt_news]=82&tx_ttnews[backPid]=42&cHash=1294d52dfc) and filed a trademark for the term. Sometime in the past year, however, the trademark was transferred from Axiotron to Apple, and Apple is now listed as the owner of the trademark.

http://images.macrumors.com/article/2009/11/30/035635-tabletmac_500.jpg

Transfer of ownership may not mean Apple has plans on using the term. Apple may have simply contested the trademark due to the potential for confusion between "TabletMac" and their own trademarks. But now Apple could potentially release a product called the TabletMac, and given the overwhelming number of reports of an Apple-branded tablet device, it certainly raises that question.

Still, we're not so sure Apple would really use this term for the rumored device, as the most recent reports (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/09/29/apple-tablet-to-run-iphone-os-and-launch-in-may-or-june-2010/) have suggested that Apple's rumored tablet will be running a version of iPhone OS rather than Mac OS. It also seems likely that Apple would choose a platform agnostic name if the device was targeted at the broad consumer market.

Article Link: Apple Takes Control of 'TabletMac' Trademark (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/11/29/apple-takes-control-of-tabletmac-trademark/)

amirite

Nov 30, 2009, 08:37 AM

It will be the iPad.

acearchie

Nov 30, 2009, 08:41 AM

Similar thing happened with iPhone a few months before release.

Hopefully not too long to wait now!

Outsider

Nov 30, 2009, 08:41 AM

I doubt Apple will ever use the name "TabletMac", but they need to protect their image.

Hattig

Nov 30, 2009, 08:42 AM

Clearly just a standard trademark dispute, resolved by Apple taking ownership of the trademark.

talkingfuture

Nov 30, 2009, 08:51 AM

Could be covering all the bases, guess we'll find out soon enough.

skinnylegs

Nov 30, 2009, 08:53 AM

I just wish they would officially announce it before the end of the year. I made a hundred dollar bet saying they would. LOL

tatonka

Nov 30, 2009, 08:55 AM

I just wish they would officially announce it before the end of the year. I made a hundred dollar bet saying they would. LOL

I guess you could consider that money lost .. if they would want to announce it this year .. it would have happened by now .. now point in announcing something in the middle of the holiday shopping ..

I am with you though .. I wish they would announce it so these pointless rumors would go away ..

T.

stagi

Nov 30, 2009, 09:02 AM

I hope 2010 will finally bring the rumored tablet to existence

Simmerl

Nov 30, 2009, 09:05 AM

I'd prefer the name "TabletMac".
I really don't like the sound of iPad.

naroola

Nov 30, 2009, 09:13 AM

It will be the iPad.

iPad sounds like the product will be a maxi pad. Hey, I am just sayin'. :D

CodeJingle

Nov 30, 2009, 09:15 AM

I thought iTablet or simply iBook?

Consultant

Nov 30, 2009, 09:16 AM

At least this story doesn't speculate that the tablet will cost less than a MacBook
when it needs more technology (aka higher cost than MacBook).

I just wish they would officially announce it before the end of the year. I made a hundred dollar bet saying they would. LOL

I hope not after they announced no new products this year.

Little Endian

Nov 30, 2009, 09:19 AM

Clearly just a standard trademark dispute, resolved by Apple taking ownership of the trademark.

agreed.... there are many trademark, copyright and patent disputes that Apple has dealt with in the past. I have not kept tally but many of the trademark and patent issues have never seen the light of day in the form of an actual finished consumer product. This is more likely Apple protecting its own turf and possible future interests. Apple legal has guidelines on trademark and copyright issues. http://www.apple.com/legal/trademark/guidelinesfor3rdparties.html

I personally don't like the sound of "TabletMac" and don't think it would be used but it obviously infringes upon Apple legal guidelines. Axiotron and Apple probably came to an amicable if not forced resolution to the matter.

MacBoobsPro

Nov 30, 2009, 09:20 AM

I think MacBook will become the tablets name and all current macbooks will become macbookpro. iPad sounds more like a gaming device. ;) The 'book' part will help sell it as an ereader.

T'hain Esh Kelch

Nov 30, 2009, 09:20 AM

MacTablet looks and sounds better IMO.

Also, TabletMac shortens to TM, which TimeMachine also bolsters..

I still go with iPad.. :p

Sayer

Nov 30, 2009, 09:21 AM

You can see the TabletMac in use on the SyFy (ugh) show Sanctuary. They have several of them in use on the show.

I bet the tablet Mac will be called iPad.

sushi

Nov 30, 2009, 09:27 AM

Interesting development.

Of course this will fan the tablet rumors a bit.

jav6454

Nov 30, 2009, 09:29 AM

Some dude posted these pictures and some videos on it. (http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=763557) I truly believe something like that will make it to the final thing.

The thread is locked, but you can still run through all the comments and videos the OP had.

fixyourthinking

Nov 30, 2009, 09:33 AM

TheSpaz

Nov 30, 2009, 09:35 AM

TabletMac sounds just about as stupid as iTouch.

I hope they market it better than that.

MacBook Touch?

dogzilla

Nov 30, 2009, 09:37 AM

Interestingly, noone is considering the possibility that there might be more than one model of tablet from Apple with differing capabilities.

p0intblank

Nov 30, 2009, 09:40 AM

"TabletMac" is definitely a possibility, especially considering the fact that Jobs said a while back he wants the name "Mac" in all their computer products.

ARF900

Nov 30, 2009, 09:43 AM

I dont think apple will name it tabletmac, its just not apple...

Speaking for the name macbook touch I think it would be cool if the tablet had a flip back lid, just something light, like a notepad.

filmweaver

Nov 30, 2009, 09:43 AM

How about a "MAClet" or "iLET" or "iMACLET"

Here it is "iTAB"

somairotevoli

Nov 30, 2009, 09:47 AM

How about a "MAClet" or "iLET" or "iMACLET"

Here it is "iTAB"

The MacTab

hayesk

Nov 30, 2009, 09:51 AM

How about calling it the "iCrappyEReaderBecauseItDoesntHaveEInk"?

I'm still trying to see the use for this outside of niche markets. It's not like the Axiotron tablet is selling millions every quarter.

Rocketman

Nov 30, 2009, 09:53 AM

It's funny that Apple would dispute this with Axiotron (which is a joint venture with Other World Computing) - On Apple's Copyright & Trademark Guidelines (http://www.apple.com/legal/trademark/guidelinesfor3rdparties.html) page - they have this:

c. “Mac” is used in combination with another non-generic word.

Acceptable: MacVenus MacCharlie

Not acceptable: MacCharleston MacSales

the website for Other World Computing is WWW.MACSALES.COM

I have a MacCharlie. :D

I think the trademark "confusion" of MacTablet was not likely until Apple planned a tablet release. I hope Apple did something cool for them such as help with their next case mold or some such.

The ModBook is a vertical market solution of a complete Macintosh experience with pen input, flat form factor and also portable. I would think Apple is generally happy to have them in the ecosystem as a unique value-added vendor.

The iBook or MacBook (ATNN) will be an iPhone OS device. I just wonder if it will ALSO have Finder?

Rocketman

DipDog3

Nov 30, 2009, 09:54 AM

Forcibly transferred???

Jolly Jimmy

Nov 30, 2009, 09:55 AM

Sorry to drift off topic but does anyone know what the eject sign in the menu bar from the pic is?

Back on topic @ MacBoobsPro, I doubt the newly refreshed and completely un-pro Macbook will be renamed a MacbookPro just so they can give it's name to the tablet.

tempusfugit

Nov 30, 2009, 09:56 AM

I think TabletMac is a pretty lame sounding name. Definitely think they're covering their bases with this one, and probably won't ever use it.

However, please apple, enough with the "i" prefix. iThis, iThat, iGetsickofitanditsnot1999anymore.

MacBoobsPro

Nov 30, 2009, 09:57 AM

knightlie

Nov 30, 2009, 09:58 AM

TabletMac sounds just about as stupid as iTouch.

I hope they market it better than that.

Apple never marketed anything as iTouch. There's no product called that.

Shasterball

Nov 30, 2009, 10:00 AM

Apple may have simply contested the trademark due to the potential for confusion between "TabletMac" and their own trademarks.

Who says Apple contested the mark? Seems like they just bought it. Also, the issue is not confusion between trademarks. The issue is confusion as to the source of a product in light of similar trademarks...

Lesser Evets

Nov 30, 2009, 10:03 AM

Didn't they copyright MAXiPOD a while back as well?

Consultant

Nov 30, 2009, 10:03 AM

If they are going to use it, it'll be more like

MacTablet

similar to
MacBook
MacBook Pro

cjmillsnun

Nov 30, 2009, 10:05 AM

JeffDM

Nov 30, 2009, 10:05 AM

How about calling it the "iCrappyEReaderBecauseItDoesntHaveEInk"?

Is that sarcasm? Is eInk available in color yet? I'm skeptical that Apple would use eink for the lack of affordable color, and for its poor contrast. The reduced battery life due to using a conventional LCD probably isn't that much of a problem for most users. If they can get 8 hours of use out of it, I bet that would be great for most people, only in relatively rare cases is the "weeks" necessary.

immortalix

Nov 30, 2009, 10:10 AM

The MacTab

sounds like a McDonald's thing

TheSpaz

Nov 30, 2009, 10:14 AM

Apple never marketed anything as iTouch. There's no product called that.

I'm just saying. TabletMac sounds really dumb. iTouch was made up by iPod touch users because they are too lazy to type iPod touch (I guess) and then a lot of people just started calling it that.

impresario13

Nov 30, 2009, 10:16 AM

DanielSw

Nov 30, 2009, 10:16 AM

Those who wrote on ancient tablets were called scribes.

It would also be a tie-in with "subscribe" for the likely publishing functionality of the device. Maybe also a reference to its possible handwriting recognition functionality.

Full of Win

Nov 30, 2009, 10:17 AM

MacTablet makes soooo much more sense

MacBook
MacBook Pro
MacPro
MacMini
MacTablet

TheSpaz

Nov 30, 2009, 10:23 AM

MacBook touch makes soooo much more sense

MacBook
MacBook Pro
Mac Pro
Mac mini
MacBook touch

Fixed it.

HawaiiMacAddict

Nov 30, 2009, 10:24 AM

Aloha everyone,

I heard this on a podcast, but don't remember which one - what about Newton II?

mdriftmeyer

Nov 30, 2009, 10:25 AM

MacTablet makes soooo much more sense

MacBook
MacBook Pro
MacPro
MacMini
MacTablet

MacPad
MacPad Pro

boyplunder

Nov 30, 2009, 10:28 AM

I keep coming back to various Apple people who have stated numerous times they wouldn't release anything in the tablet/netbook slot unless they had something great to offer.

TabletMac hints at something more capable. I can't see why they would release anything 'cut-down' or limited to books and magazines, or just running apps. This is going to be more than anything else we're offered right now.

The rumours about publishers is all about expanding iTunes, which may need a name change, frankly, and the tablet is something else. It could be like those things Captain Kirk has to sign once in a while...!

Mister Snitch

Nov 30, 2009, 10:28 AM

1) One too many syllables in 'TabletMac'. Apple will want a two-syllable name starting with "i", to 'sync' with iMac, iPod and iPhone. (Yes, iPod Touch is THREE syllables but the Touch is just a variation of the iPod brand, just as "MacBook Pro" is a variation of "MacBook".)

2) Apple will not want this seen as just another form factor for a Macintosh. They want this to be its own thing, in and of itself. So, 'Mac' will not be part of the name.

3) iPad, as suggested earlier, is a better name. The only problem with it is potential confusion with 'iPod'. On the other hand, some confusion between the names of two Apple products is not entirely bad: It forces the consumer to repeat and focus on the name.

"I'd like an iPad, please."
"iPod?"
"No, an iPad. The new product."
"You mean the tablet?"
"I guess. You know, the one with a big screen, the one that looks like a big iPhone."

4) Any name with "tablet" in it sounds, to the general public, like it either came from Mt. Sinai or a pharmacist. (Yes, it's kind of a joke, but seriously. Apple's market extends far beyond the geeks who live for this stuff.)

5) "iBook" makes the product sound too limited, as if it was just another Kindle or Sony Reader. Apple won't want that perception. (They're not a "me-too" kinda company.)

6) Ditto "iReader".

7) It's possible Apple will choose a word with no direct, obvious connection to the device's purpose ('tablet', 'reader', etc.), because it believes it has the power to invest the name with the meaning it chooses. That's what it did with "pod", rather than "iPlayer" or "iMusic Box" or something equally pedestrian. What was a "pod" before Apple started selling them? Mainly something you kept peas in. (On that basis, "iTab" is possible but I think unlikely.)

Nem Wan

Nov 30, 2009, 10:50 AM

Generally, trademarks are "use it or lose it". To keep a registration "live" a registered trademark must be used currently in commerce. Some companies find an obscure way to do this, for example Verizon slaps the old Ma Bell logo on phone booths or vehicles although the real purpose is to prevent it from becoming available to all-comers, as the infamously unregistered "fingers walking" yellow pages logo did.

So, Apple has to call something a TabletMac to actually keep the trademark. Based on the "Mac" portion they can argue confusion to try to keep others from using it anytime, but actually keeping TabletMac from going "dead" requires using it. The "Mac" trademark is particularly difficult for Apple to police because it was allowed to be used by all kinds of third parties for all kinds of purposes in the Mac's early years.

JeffDM

Nov 30, 2009, 10:51 AM

I'm just saying. TabletMac sounds really dumb. iTouch was made up by iPod touch users because they are too lazy to type iPod touch (I guess) and then a lot of people just started calling it that.

I think it's a valid informal shortening, I don't think any less valid than abbreviations such as MBP.

Why some people object to its informal use is beyond me. Why people confuse the informal use with the marketing name is probably just brain farting or poor mental faculties.

unknownart

Nov 30, 2009, 10:55 AM

I kinda like TabletMac, or better yet, TMac.
I was also thinking of "MacT" however MacT conjures McDonalds.:) But then again, ever since the tv show, Grey's Anatomy, having a "mac" in front of a noun has become sexy.

Mister Snitch

Nov 30, 2009, 11:01 AM

So, Apple has to call something a TabletMac to actually keep the trademark.

I hear that. But Apple may apply the name to something other than the physical product in order to keep the name. They could, for example, call the operating system "TabletMac".

They would do something like that to, as you say, avoid product confusion. Since they are coming out with a tablet product, which will get heavy publicity, they don't want a cloner selling a "TabletMac" to try and take advantage of consumer confusion.

huntercr

Nov 30, 2009, 11:03 AM

I always liked "Slate", when that guy accidently blurted it out a couple of months back.

Originally I was thinking it would be the iPad. I think that won't be the real name for it, but that they'll make some sort of humorous reference with respect to that in the ad campaigns.

Personally I think the iBook is also good fit. has good existing name recognition and pays a bit of homage without any negative comparison ( like Newton might have )

iMacmatician

Nov 30, 2009, 11:04 AM

At least this story doesn't speculate that the tablet will cost less than a MacBook
when it needs more technology (aka higher cost than MacBook).Depends on what the tablet will have.

Eric S.

Nov 30, 2009, 11:07 AM

Apple just wants trademark ownership of the use of "Mac" in any tech product. I can't see Apple actually naming a product "TabletMac."

TheSpaz

Nov 30, 2009, 11:08 AM

I think it's a valid informal shortening, I don't think any less valid than abbreviations such as MBP.

Why some people object to its informal use is beyond me. Why people confuse the informal use with the marketing name is probably just brain farting or poor mental faculties.

Because nobody ever says iClassic, iNano or iShuffle. The iPod touch is an iPod. It's part of the iPod family, so it has to have iPod in the name.

It should remain "iPod touch" because that's what it is. It's not that hard to type.

People these days with their lazy-ass typing make me sick. Oh, and it's not just typing... I've actually heard people say "iTouch" out loud and it still sounds retarded.

By the way. Why do people in this thread keep speculating that the tablet could be called an "iBook". Now, I know that not everyone has been around Macs for as long as I have, but iBook has been used for years for Apple's consumer laptops. I thought it was general knowledge.

Rot'nApple

Nov 30, 2009, 11:09 AM

The Apple Tablet reserved for a possible tablet made by Apple is hard to tell if that would be the name.

We heard straight from Steve the change of the laptop name to highlight the Macintosh "Mac", so we have the MacBook, MacBook Pro and the MacBook Air to go along with the iMac and PowerMac and Mac Mini. But then Apple goes and names their phone the iPhone, how original... how boring... They should of called it the "MacSmack" as in don't "talk smack"! :D

So a tablet name... hmmm what's a good one that retains the "Mac" name... JotterMac or JotterMac Pro

Jotter defined: 1. a person who jots things down. or 2. a small notebook (aka netbook). :D:apple:

iSee

Nov 30, 2009, 11:13 AM

iPad sounds like the product will be a maxi pad. Hey, I am just sayin'. :D

I gotta say, that's what I was thinking too. Can I get one with flexi-wings?

iZac

Nov 30, 2009, 11:13 AM

I thought iTablet or simply iBook?

+1 for bringing back iBook!

firewood

Nov 30, 2009, 11:14 AM

Generally, trademarks are "use it or lose it". To keep a registration "live" a registered trademark must be used currently in commerce. ...
So, Apple has to call something a TabletMac to actually keep the trademark.

Would licensing the trademark back to Axiotron count as legal use?

adztaylor

Nov 30, 2009, 11:15 AM

Dunno what it's gonna be called, but I can tell you the Apple tablet is gonna be using PPC.

TheSpaz

Nov 30, 2009, 11:17 AM

I'm so glad Apple doesn't let their users come up with product names. Ewww. It would be a disaster.

I think the most logical name would be the MacBook touch. Here's why.

MacBook = Consumer computer
touch = To describe the type of computer it is.

MacBook Air
MacBook Pro
MacBook Touch

It would fit in perfectly. I have a feeling it's going to be like a bigger, more powerful iPod touch that is more like a full computer.

I have to admit, I don't know any better about what Apple will call it than all of you, but most of the names everyone else is coming up with is so un-Apple.

TMac? Really? No.

TheSpaz

Nov 30, 2009, 11:18 AM

Dunno what it's gonna be called, but I can tell you the Apple tablet is gonna be using PPC.

Why do you say that?

powers74

Nov 30, 2009, 11:43 AM

I would be sorely disappointed if it didn't run OSX, but I'm thinking it will. This is good news to support that hope!

Personally I think the iBook is also good fit. has good existing name recognition and pays a bit of homage without any negative comparison ( like Newton might have )

iLike this too.

Berio

Nov 30, 2009, 11:51 AM

... so it has to have iPod in the name.

It should remain "iPod touch" because that's what it is. It's not that hard to type.

People these days with their lazy-ass typing make me sick. Oh, and it's not just typing... I've actually heard people say "iTouch" out loud and it still sounds retarded.

Wow, I'm impressed by your vigor in this matter.
Do your friends call you an iPedant or a MacPedant?

inkhead

Nov 30, 2009, 11:53 AM

NO. This is not a trademark dispute or settlement of any kind.

SHORT ANSWER: Apple will have a tablet soon.

Axiotron was Apple certified to create a tablet mac. They got Apple's permission, and also Apple's blessing to use the name "Tablet Mac".

Apple recently requested the name back. While Apple's device might be named something else, they don't want any confusion for their customers when people refer to a "tablet macintosh"

This is very clearly, Apple getting the trademark back for good reason. They paid Axiotron to get the name, and the terms of that is as usual "keep it quiet", this is why Axiotron hasn't even began to mention it.

TheSpaz

Nov 30, 2009, 11:58 AM

Wow, I'm impressed by your vigor in this matter.
Do your friends call you an iPedant or a MacPedant?

Lemme just tell you this. I don't have friends that say "iTouch". Cause if they do, they're not my friends.

"iTouch" annoys me more than I'm annoying you right now.

Barbie

Nov 30, 2009, 11:59 AM

iMac touch ...

JeffDM

Nov 30, 2009, 12:06 PM

People these days with their lazy-ass typing make me sick. Oh, and it's not just typing... I've actually heard people say "iTouch" out loud and it still sounds retarded.

By the way. Why do people in this thread keep speculating that the tablet could be called an "iBook". Now, I know that not everyone has been around Macs for as long as I have, but iBook has been used for years for Apple's consumer laptops. I thought it was general knowledge.

Since you threw in the "retarted" comment, I think it's fair to say that your sentiment is anal retentive.

deus_ex_machina

Nov 30, 2009, 12:11 PM

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/11/29/apple-takes-control-of-tabletmac-trademark/)

Transfer of ownership may not mean Apple has plans on using the term. Apple may have simply contested the trademark due to the potential for confusion between "TabletMac" and their own trademarks. But now Apple could potentially release a product called the TabletMac, and given the overwhelming number of reports of an Apple-branded tablet device, it certainly raises that question.
[/url]

+1! It's nice to see some using the proper term instead of the misnomer "begging the question." :)

Flavioparentiq

Nov 30, 2009, 12:11 PM

the tablet has been delayed to late 2010 after chrome os came out.
It could be a coincidence... but my guess is that the device will be an 100% internet compliant pece of hardware with an online os similar to the iphone one, but more powerful to handle desktop environment apps.

The os will have an online profile for each user, creating an identity for every user that goes online linked to all system settings a synchronization with desktop or macbook off line systems. This will help in advertising too, profiling the user analizing all his online moves.

The tablet will be a device with media/buying capabilities (itunes/quicktime/appstore/ebay/online purchase), surf capabilities (safari and synchronization services) and kindle-like (publisher for online magazine) and light desktop applications that could be download via the appstore.

Gps, 3g and wi-fi ready.

Btw, name could be Itab or Ibook or Itakeovereverything

Berio

Nov 30, 2009, 12:12 PM

Lemme just tell you this. I don't have friends that say "iTouch". Cause if they do, they're not my friends.

"iTouch" annoys me more than I'm annoying you right now.

So, if a close friend said iTouch, you would actually terminate the friendship? Excellent!

What if a you heard a stranger say iTouch in a public space? You'd go over and clobber the offender, right?

I applaud you & wish you luck on this crusade against abbreviation.

libertyforall

Nov 30, 2009, 12:19 PM

Yea, they didn't want the name to end up at Psystar... :D

TheSpaz

Nov 30, 2009, 12:22 PM

So, if a close friend said iTouch, you would actually terminate the friendship? Excellent!

What if a you heard a stranger say iTouch in a public space? You'd go over and clobber the offender, right?

I applaud you & wish you luck on this crusade against abbreviation.

No. If my close friend said iTouch, I would tell them that I do not like that word and the reasons why. Then they agree with me, apologize and they stay my friend.

I don't clobber people.

It's an iPod.

Imagine how dumb people would sound if they started doing that to all of Apple's stuff?

iMini
iAir
iPro
iClassic
iNano
iLogic
iGarageBand
iSoundtrack
iMagic Mouse

JGowan

Nov 30, 2009, 12:26 PM

Axiotron could have been shut down or paid off when this came out. Doing so before would've been a mistake because it would've sent the message that Apple would soon bring out it's own tablet and didn't want the confusion that TabletMac was theirs. Being that they didn't want to send that message prematurely, they did nothing.

Ironically, it's just that very thing that I think is happening now. Now that they ARE [we are all assuming] bringing out their tablet and rightly soon, they are shutting down the name from Axiotron (it's now called "modbook").

Honestly, Axiotron probably sells so few of these that a simple name change is not going to cost them sales. Also, Apple's decision to put out a tablet probably won't either since all bets are on Apple going with with a modified iPhone OS X and not just OS X outright. There'll be plenty of people who still want a tablet with the actual Mac OS X to keep Axiotron in greenbacks.

I totally think this is a clear indicator that we'll soon a tablet from Apple. It won't be called TabletMac, but it's coming.

Rot'nApple

Nov 30, 2009, 12:44 PM

I bet the tablet Mac will be called iPad.

I hope not. The iPad sound too much like Bill Clinton's Bachelor Pad for "WWHI"! :D

What is "WWHI"? 'Wayward White House Interns', of course! :rolleyes:

Rot'nApple

Nov 30, 2009, 12:45 PM

The MacTab

Smell a lawsuit from the "Tab" cola company... Do they still make Tab?! :confused:

charlituna

Nov 30, 2009, 12:45 PM

Similar thing happened with iPhone a few months before release.

not exactly.

Cisco had bought the iphone mark from another company some 6-7 years ago and then did nothing with it. It was only after they found out that Apple was going to pick up the mark after it had legally expired (due to the lack of use) that they announced they were releasing in 'iphone' (about a month before the legal deadline) which they did some 3 months after the Apple one. Their hold on the mark was legally very thin but Apple decided not to bother with the lawsuit and agreed to a sharing of the mark. Had they pursued in court it is possible they would have won the mark outright.

My guess on this issue is that Axiotron doesn't see any logic in continuing their modification once Apple's tablet hits the market. So they won't need it. And/or they know they are potentially on thin ice using 'Mac' in the name so it is best to just give up the mark without a fuss.

and in keeping with the current i+what it is naming it will be the iTablet. Camel Cap and all.

At least this story doesn't speculate that the tablet will cost less than a MacBook when it needs more technology (aka higher cost than MacBook).

so you say. but the dominant rumor suggests that the tech is in between the iPod Touch and the Macbook so the cost may be as well.

It is unlikely that they are going to degrade the Macbook sales by making a tablet that is just the Axiotron with Apple's logo on it. The logical piece is to make a true netbook with the ipod functions, and likely ereading and perhaps gaming etc support (via the App Store), not a full blown laptop in a tablet form.

heisetax

Nov 30, 2009, 12:52 PM

So far the product name should be something like Mac Vaporware. But since the idea of Apple coming out with a tablet or other new model have in the past several years only a rumor by rumor sites & not Apple promises that have not occurred.

That would leave Mac Rumorware for its name at this time.

timbck2

Nov 30, 2009, 01:06 PM

MacTablet makes soooo much more sense

MacBook
MacBook Pro
MacPro
MacMini
MacTablet

Except that according to some rumors, the tablet isn't fully a Mac (i.e. it doesn't run the full version of OS X), but instead it's more like a pumped up iPhone. In which case the name iTablet or iReader or something similar makes more sense (as much as I hate the idea of any more products beginning with "i").

Edot

Nov 30, 2009, 01:08 PM

+1 for bringing back iBook!

I suppose you want it to be clam shell too...

JeffDM

Nov 30, 2009, 01:11 PM

JeffDM

Nov 30, 2009, 01:14 PM

No. If my close friend said iTouch, I would tell them that I do not like that word and the reasons why. Then they agree with me, apologize and they stay my friend.

Yes, because the anal retentive person is always right. The way you write it, you make it sound like they lobbed a personally offensive statement, like saying something about your mother.

It doesn't sound like you could be friends with people that you disagree with, they have to believe the same thing as you do, or they're out. Talk about a recipe for groupthink.

Berio

Nov 30, 2009, 01:32 PM

No. If my close friend said iTouch, I would tell them that I do not like that word and the reasons why. Then they agree with me, apologize and they stay my friend.

Cool, but what happened to the 'friends' who didn't agree? body found in a quarry? :-)
You sound like a great guy, let me ask you this: do you always agree when you friends tell you that they don't like a word you have uttered? you probably have fascinating conversations, clean and totally free of abbreviation.

and in conversation you would never say: "Obama" you always say: "Barack Hussein Obama II, 44th President of the United States" right?

I don't clobber people.

just give withering stares, sí?

It's an iPod.

yes, we're in agreement: it's a member if the iPod family, this model is lovingly referred to by the so-called apple community as the iTouch.

Imagine how dumb people would sound if they started doing that to all of Apple's stuff?

"Apple"? i don't like that word, please refer to the company as "Apple Inc."

You seem really concerned with how dumb people sound - why?
If people want to refer to a device by a pet name, why not?
I'm sure you'll agree that if all readers know which device they are referring there is no problem.
Must be great fun having you as a dad or mum, or even as a friend

Now, I suggest having a glass of warm iMilk, and maybe have some fun with your iDi*k

best
B

PS are you still using iFinal iCut Istudio

Atrium

Nov 30, 2009, 01:53 PM

I think what everyone is actually missing here is the fact that the address on the document for Apple was "1 Infinite Loop"

I only hope that I too can someday be rich enough to change the name of the street I live on into a witty computer pun.

makkystyle

Nov 30, 2009, 02:01 PM

How do you know that all of this is true? You're telling people they're wrong (I gather they may well be, but I have no proof), and you make a few statements that I'm skeptical that you know for sure is true.

Steve Wozniak is first on the Board of Advisors for Axiotron and has been touting their ModBook from the day it was released. Axiotron has very close Apple ties. They sold and Apple purchased this trademark for VERY good reason

TheSpaz

Nov 30, 2009, 02:09 PM

Cool, but what happened to the 'friends' who didn't agree? body found in a quarry? :-)
You sound like a great guy, let me ask you this: do you always agree when you friends tell you that they don't like a word you have uttered? you probably have fascinating conversations, clean and totally free of abbreviation.

and in conversation you would never say: "Obama" you always say: "Barack Hussein Obama II, 44th President of the United States" right?

just give withering stares, sí?

yes, we're in agreement: it's a member if the iPod family, this model is lovingly referred to by the so-called apple community as the iTouch.

"Apple"? i don't like that word, please refer to the company as "Apple Inc."

You seem really concerned with how dumb people sound - why?
If people want to refer to a device by a pet name, why not?
I'm sure you'll agree that if all readers know which device they are referring there is no problem.
Must be great fun having you as a dad or mum, or even as a friend

Now, I suggest having a glass of warm iMilk, and maybe have some fun with your iDi*k

best
B

PS are you still using iFinal iCut Istudio

This is an iTouch (http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/68/4488&cl=us,en)

How can I take someone seriously when they call an iPod touch an "iTouch"? I can't. iTouch is lame. So is "OMG", "LOL" and lots of other stupid internet abbreviations. What pains me more is that people say it out loud in conversations now... at least people don't say "LOL" out loud.

Berio

Nov 30, 2009, 02:23 PM

How can I take someone seriously when they call an iPod touch an "iTouch"? I can't. iTouch is lame. So is "OMG", "LOL" and lots of other stupid internet abbreviations. What pains me more is that people say it out loud in conversations now... at least people don't say "LOL" out loud.

LOL

wackymacky

Nov 30, 2009, 02:30 PM

TabletMac sounds just about as stupid as iTouch.

I hope they market it better than that.

MacBook Touch?

Except this would imply it is a version of a Mac Book, i.e a fully fledgd device running full OS 10.5 -10.6

TabletBac dosen't flow off the tounge as snoothly as MacTablet

powers74

Nov 30, 2009, 02:36 PM

Since this is turning into a peeve thread, know what I hate? Logos with pointless swooshes. I also hate logos with pointless swooshey abstracted dancing humanoid figures. AAAAGH! POINTLESS!

kockgunner

Nov 30, 2009, 04:07 PM

"Apple Tablet"

the logo on the post above mine looks like the Logitech one.

Eric S.

Nov 30, 2009, 04:13 PM

Ironically, it's just that very thing that I think is happening now. Now that they ARE [we are all assuming] bringing out their tablet and rightly soon, they are shutting down the name from Axiotron (it's now called "modbook").

It's been called Modbook for years; as far as I know it was always marketed as Modbook, never "Tablet Mac." I think this proves nothing about Apple's intentions for a tablet product.

Stigma

Nov 30, 2009, 04:27 PM

It will be the iPad.

That sounds more like Apple's brand of feminine hygiene products.

iZac

Nov 30, 2009, 04:55 PM

I suppose you want it to be clam shell too...

ah, Key Lime the most offensive of greens.

Marx55

Nov 30, 2009, 04:57 PM

Mac + Tablet is the perfect mix, if weights 300 to 600 g and is small.

twoodcc

Nov 30, 2009, 05:19 PM

well this has to be a good sign that the tablet is coming, and hopefully soon

llurgy

Nov 30, 2009, 05:51 PM

This is an iTouch (http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/68/4488&cl=us,en)

How can I take someone seriously when they call an iPod touch an "iTouch"? I can't. iTouch is lame. So is "OMG", "LOL" and lots of other stupid internet abbreviations. What pains me more is that people say it out loud in conversations now... at least people don't say "LOL" out loud.

I call my iPod Touch my "TouchMe Pod"

nhood01

Nov 30, 2009, 06:29 PM

I think MacBook will become the tablets name and all current macbooks will become macbookpro. iPad sounds more like a gaming device. ;) The 'book' part will help sell it as an ereader.

Why would a non-folding device have the name book in it? Its much more likely that the name will have to do with the tablet esque look of the thing.

tabasco70

Nov 30, 2009, 09:59 PM

They would never call it the TabletMac.

JeffDM

Nov 30, 2009, 10:37 PM

They would never call it the TabletMac.

I don't think they should, but they could. Some people said that Apple would never make the "fat" nano, and the same thing happened with the tall screen nano. I think the same happened with the video recording too.

SPUY767

Nov 30, 2009, 11:03 PM

I doubt Apple will ever use the name "TabletMac", but they need to protect their image.

Tablet mac is too clunky of a name, but apple can't have random people running around making anything called a mac.

.:R2theT

Nov 30, 2009, 11:05 PM

iPodMaxi!

Or maybe MaxiPod.

Either way it doesn't exist.

But when it does it will be called whatever the ***** Steve wants to call it!

MagnusVonMagnum

Dec 1, 2009, 02:17 AM

It will be the iPad.

Yeah, I was thinking iTablet, but same difference. No "Mac" word in there and they would be golden. Apple doesn't control every "i" usage out there.

pysl

Dec 1, 2009, 03:44 AM

the word "tablet" sounds like some kind of medicine tablet :eek:

CJS7070

Dec 1, 2009, 03:59 AM

TabletMac simply doesn't sound like a name Apple would use for one of their products.

zarusoba

Dec 1, 2009, 06:36 AM

It's not going to be called "tablet" or "slate" either. Both words evoke the Stone Age, and tablet evokes drug use.

iCore

Dec 1, 2009, 09:28 AM

This is why it won't be named iPAD:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1BUH9eXy18

DriverDan

Dec 1, 2009, 12:50 PM

It will be the iPad.

tPod, anyone?

Detlev_73

Dec 1, 2009, 04:45 PM

I just realized that were this new product to be called "MacTab" it would be almost the same as the Arabic noun مكتبة 'maktab' library. I wonder if this just coincidence.:confused:

Eric S.

Dec 1, 2009, 06:08 PM

I just realized that were this new product to be called "MacTab" it would be almost the same as the Arabic noun مكتبة 'maktab' library. I wonder if this just coincidence.:confused:

Wow. If not a coincidence it would have to be the most esoteric product name ever.

charlituna

Dec 1, 2009, 11:20 PM

, and tablet evokes drug use.

well for some gadget geeks, macs are their crack.

powers74

Dec 2, 2009, 10:12 AM

I just thought of a HUGE market for the Applet that I havn't seen anyone talk about yet. One word.

Schools.

Interesting that they snagged the security guy from OLPC?

charlituna

Dec 3, 2009, 12:03 AM

I just thought of a HUGE market for the Applet that I havn't seen anyone talk about yet. One word.

Schools.

actually it has. just not in this thread. came up huge when the e-reader issue started.

schools and hospitals.

3D-Zeitschrift

Dec 12, 2009, 02:43 PM

With This Software you can Publish on the new iTouch Tablet
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpBIRAFLvuw

AppleTools

Dec 12, 2009, 04:07 PM

As much as I like the iPad name, Apple won't use that term because it's confusing with the iPod, specially on printed advertising where people may get confused with both words...

TabletMac reduces the target market to Mac users since anyone will automatically link the word "Mac" with a Mac computer and not to a brand new type of device as everybody says it will be...

iTablet sounds cool but again, is a little long...

I personally think that iTab would be a nice name for such a device but it's already in use by a company that makes a guitar tab program so they probably hold the rights for it.

In any case, when the first iPod came out I didn't really liked the name, now the term is universal so whatever name they choose for that device will become the standard.

Let's hope to see that soon next year.