The original Apple devices that used the "iX" naming convention were, as far as I can recall, the iMacs. They were basically just an internet box, since they were relatively low powered systems with the entire computer built permanently into the monitor, with the exception of necessary peripherals like mouse and keyboard. Since then, they've just started slapping the "i" on the front of nearly everything that they make, even though most of those devices have little to no interaction with the internet. The iPhone name, it turns out, predates anything that Apple offered using that style of name, which recently led to a lawsuit from Cisco (who acquired the trademark by buying the originating company, InfoGear) upon the announcement of Apple's upcoming cel phone/iPod combo device. They have since acquired the rights to the iPhone trademark.
The naming convention is not at all unique to Apple, though it is very much identified with them thanks to the iMac and iPod. Aside from the iPhone, shortly after the iMac became a popular success, there was the iPaq (Compaq's answer to the iMac), three different MP3 players that predate the iPod (including the iRiver), and now there are several products that have tried to capitalize on the insinuated cool-factor of having an iName (arguably, the only current iBrand that carries any real weight is the iPod, as that's the only Apple brand that holds a majority market share). There are also a ton of iPod accessories that make a point of linking themselves to the iPod by way of an iName, like the iDog and the entire iHome lineup.
2007-04-04 09:30:51
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answer #1
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answered by the_amazing_purple_dave 4
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The "i" was supposed to be Apple-exclusive, but another company (can't remember which one) brought a lawsuit and the companies have agreed to "share" the "i." I think it stands for "individual?"
2007-04-04 09:05:10
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answer #2
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answered by tracymoo 6
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