Apple is now seeking a trademark for “iWatch” in Japan, as Google, Samsung, and even Apple assembly partner Foxconn are reportedly readying their own smart watch devices.
The maker of iPhones is seeking protection for the name which is categorized as being for products including a handheld computer or watch device, according to a June 3 filing with the Japan Patent Office that was made public last week. Takashi Takebayashi, a Tokyo-based spokesman for Apple, didn’t respond to a message left at his office seeking comment on the application.
It was reported earlier this year that Apple has a team of around 100 product designers working on the wristwatch device that could communicate with their iPhone and iPad devices. Android based rival Samsung announced in March that it was working on a smart watch. Android developer Google is also reported to be working on a similar device.
Foxconn, Apple’s assembly partner for iPhones and other devices, also announced last week that it will be releasing a smart watch that will work with the iPhone.
No release date has been announced for any of the smart watch products.
