Recently, NEC’s application for trademark registration for three models of its iconic 1980s PC-8800 series has garnered some attention. This application covers the “PC-8801mkIISR” released in 1985, the “PC-8801MA” from 1987, and the “PC-8801mC” from 1989. The applicant is NEC Personal Computer Corporation.
Past Trademark Registrations and Current Trends
While multiple trademarks related to the PC-9800 series have been registered in the past, this is the first time trademarks for the PC-8800 series have been registered. Though there are instances where previously overlooked products are newly registered, this is rare for NEC products. One reason this application is attracting attention is the high number of users expecting mini-PCs similar to the “X68000 Z.”
Expectations and Uncertainty
Although approximately 40 years have passed since the release of the PC-8800 series, this trademark application raises the possibility that NEC might bring this series back into the spotlight in some form. With user expectations rising, further developments are eagerly awaited. There is also interest in whether similar trademark applications will be made for other models in the future.
Insights
Trademark applications are a significant indicator of a company’s strategic movements. NEC’s recent actions might signify more than just the protection of past iconic machines; they could hint at new product developments. Especially now, with the resurgence of the retro PC boom, the revival of the PC-8800 series could bring new vitality to the market.
Trademark applications are crucial for protecting a product’s brand value, but they also provide clues to a company’s future outlook. From this move by NEC, we look forward to seeing what kind of product developments will follow.
We will continue to watch closely to see how NEC reintroduces the PC-8800 series to the market and what strategies underpin this move.
