Apple loses 'Ifone' appeal case in Mexico

Apple has lost its appeal case in Mexico over the naming rights to the iPhone in the country, according to the Wall Street Journal. As we reported in November, in 2009 Apple asked Ifone, a Mexican telecommunications company which registered its name in 2003, to change its name to avoid confusion. The company refused and Apple sued it, saying Ifone had lost its naming rights due to letting the brand lapse. Apple lost its request in court and was subsequently counter-sued by Ifone for damages. Ifone then also sought to cease sales of any iPhone-branded Apple product, which prompted Apple to file its injunction.

According to the Wall Street Journal, "The [Mexican] Supreme Court this week rejected Apple's appeal against the decision at the request of Ifone. Ifone's corporate lawyer Eduardo Gallastegui said the decision frees the company to continue with its claims, already submitted to the Industrial Property Institute IMPI, for damages resulting from the use of its name by Apple and by three Mexican mobile phone service providers: America Movil unit Telcel, Spain's Telefonica SA and Grupo Iusacell."

There is no word yet on how this will affect Apple's ability to sell its iPhone in Mexico. However it's possible that the two companies will come to a financial agreement that benefits them both.