SlashGear

This one goes out to everyone that was crushed when Linksys announced their iPhone product line.

Thanks to a recent tip, there’s a slight chance that Apple’s new phone may still be called the “iPhone”. I recently wrote an article over at aMobileME with info to support this claim.

The image below is probably the phone in question. Why? The design fits Apple’s previously filed patents. And if you look closely at the bottom right, you’ll see the blurb “Setup Note: This board should” appears, as if there’s a dialogue between Apple and an ad agency. Everything about the image is applicious including the text and image style.

It’s also worth noting that a quick search in the United States Patent and Trademark Office yield four “iPhone” trademarks. One has been granted to Linksys and its parent company Cisco, while the other two was denied. The fourth application filed by Ocean Telecom has yet to be formally approved.

Depending on the direction the wind blows on the day of judgment, it’s highly possible the USPTO will allow the iPhone name to be used again if it’s different enough.

Just remember, it’s never over until the fat lady sings.

Leaked Image/Patent Office Search May Keep “iPhone” Name Alive [Powerpage.org]