Apple objected to a European trademark filing from Chinese keyboard maker Yichun Qinningmeng Electronics Co. over its citrus fruit logo, which the EU Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) partially rejected. The logo features a citrus fruit with keyboard keys replacing its bottom segments, a leaf angled at the top, and a missing right section. Apple argued the design mimicked its bitten-apple logo, but the EUIPO ruled it resembled an orange due to its round shape and generic leaf depiction. The decision hinged on Apple’s global reputation, with the EUIPO acknowledging minor similarities but finding the logos “not conceptually similar.” Yichun Qinningmeng can still use the logo for solar panels but faces restrictions on computer-related goods.

The company may appeal within two months. This follows Apple’s history of opposing fruit-themed trademarks, including a 2020 lawsuit against a Prepear app with a pear logo. The case underscores tensions between brand protection and generic design elements in global intellectual property disputes.