Apple applies for 'iWatch' trademark

Tokyo NEWS24 Apple has applied for a trademark for "iWatch" in Japan, a patent official said on Monday, signalling the iPhone maker may be moving ahead with plans for a watch-like device as gadget makers turn their attention to wearable computers. The trademark application, submitted on 3 June and released on the Japan Patent Office website on 27 June, would cover computers, computer peripherals and wristwatches, the official said. He said it was unknown how long the application process would require. An Apple spokesperson in Japan could not immediately be reached for comment. Speculation has mounted that Apple is preparing to launch an iWatch and chief executive officer Tim Cook told a gathering of tech and media executives a month ago that wearable products were ripe for exploration, but added he was sceptical, including about Google's recently unveiled Glass which combines a mobile computer and eyeglasses. "There's nothing that's going to convince a kid who has never worn glasses or a band or a watch to wear one, or at least I haven't seen it," Cook said. Wearable devices are considered a potential area for hit products as smartphones such as the iPhone and Samsung Electronics Galaxy series are losing their ability to impress consumers and investors.