Apple looks to trademark iPad likeness in China

The two designs — one in black and white, the other in color — were submitted under International Class 009, a trademark classification covering computers, computer peripheral devices, computer gaming machines, digital electronic devices, and a range of other information technology-related devices, reports Patently Apple.

Securing the likeness of the iPad is yet another step by Apple to protect its brand and image in China's burgeoning consumer electronics market. The Cupertino company recently settled a trademark dispute case with Chinese company Proview. Under that settlement, Apple paid Proview $60 million for the Chinese rights to the iPad trademark.

Apple has recently intensified its focus on the Chinese sector, with CEO Tim Cook meeting with China's largest cellular carrier last week during his second trip to the country in the past ten months. Apple is also moving to position its premium products as more affordable within the Chinese market, introducing installment payments that allow customers to take up to 24 months to pay off their purchases.