Intel on Wednesday joined Dell in a legal fight over using the word "netbook."
The companies are doing battle with PC manufacturer Psion Teklogix, who claims exclusive ownership of the term because one of its earlier miniature computer models was named NetBook.
"This action arises from the allegations recently launched by [Psion] that it has the exclusive right to use the term 'netbook,'" the 13-page filing reads [pdf]. "It does not. The consuming public has already adopted "netbook" as a generic term for a category of notebook computers that are small, inexpensive, and contain less processing power, making them optimal for connecting to the internet (or "net")."
Some netbook-focused publications in December reported receiving cease-and-desist lettersfrom Psion in December, demanding them to remove any reference to the word "netbook."
"We note that you have recently started using the word netbook without Psion's consent," aletter from Psion read.
"Psion places significant value on the trade mark registrations and your use of the term 'netbook' could damage those registrations."
Then Dell last week filed a petition to cancel Psion's trademark, arguing that the word netbook has become a generic term. Dell added that Psion has abandoned the term, as its NetBook line of computers is discontinued. And Dell alleges Psion is committing fraud by claiming damage to its business when it isn't even selling computers with that name. Intel's follow-up complaint reinforced Dell's allegations.
Game on: Intel joins netbook trademark suit, flames Psion [Ars Technica]
Photo: Jonathan Snyder/Wired.com
