Microsoft seeks to block Apple 'App Store' trademark (BBC)

[eppur_se_muova]

Microsoft has said that it has asked US officials to block Apple's attempt to trademark the words "App Store".

Apple submitted an application for the phrase - used for its iPhone, iPad and Macintosh download services - in 2008.

But Microsoft has now told BBC News that it has asked the US Patent and Trademark Office to reject the application.

The company says the term is too generic and competitors should be able to use it.

"An 'app store' is an 'app store'," said Russell Pangborn, Microsoft's associate general counsel. "Like 'shoe store' or 'toy store', it is a generic term that is commonly used by companies, governments and individuals that offer apps."
***
more: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-12173224




What if Apple had named their product after something really generic -- something that had been in common use for centuries before computers were invented -- something found in almost every home -- you know, like "windows"?

[zipplewrath]

1. Instead of apples?

I don't think you can get much more "generic" than apples. Heck, they aren't even "man made".

And you do realize that "apps" doesn't have anything to do with "apples" right?

[Skink]

2. everybody knows apple invented apps

[onehandle]

3. Historically, Apple has had 'Applications' and Microsoft chose 'Programs.'

So MS should call theirs the 'Prog Store.'

Catchy.

How about the .exe store? Since Apple Applications are .app.

No?

MS will lose this one and is starting to look desperate.

[AtheistCrusader]

5. Droid (google) uses the same term.

[ProgressiveProfessor]

4. The term applications and apps is universal in the field