Ping iTunes (not to be confused with Ping Eye2)

Apple is launching a new social network for music that it is calling Ping, which is built into its iTunes platform. Ping, of course, is a golf equipment company and the name is trademarked by its parent, Karsten Manufacturing Co. What to do?

Ping (the golf equipment company) announced that it has entered into an agreement with Apple to license its trademark.

"We are pleased to enter into this agreement with Apple," John Solheim, chairman and CEO of Karsten Manufacturing Corporation and Ping, said in a news release. "Like Ping, Apple carries a reputation for innovation and quality. I have always had great respect for companies that have changed and improved the ways things are done and I continue to model Ping along those lines. Apple is a truly great example of this kind of enterprise."

-- John Strege