Cisco v. Apple

Who didn't see this coming? Cisco is suing Apple for trademark infringement. Cisco obtained the trademark in 2000 when they bought Infogear, which filed for the mark in 1996. Linksys, a member of Cisco's family, markets and sells a line of iPhones. It seems the two companies have been negotiating a long time about use of the name, but talks broke down moments before Jobs hit the stage earlier this week. Apple's response to the suit?

"We believe that Cisco's U.S. trademark registration is tenuous at best," [Apple spokeswoman Natalie Kerris] said. "Apple's the first company to use the iPhone name for a cell phone. And if Cisco wants to challenge us on it, we're very confident we will prevail."

This one will be interesting. Apple undoubtedly will win this one on the marketing side, but they may have to pony up some cash to make Cisco go away.