the number of patents that apple has on things that, to me, seem generic enough to generate good competition and innovation is astounding. and depressing.
Unlike with patents if you don't defend a trademark you will lose it. Trademarks and patents are different and I'm curious as to why you're relating them here.
but yes, a trademark is representative of a brand, and it's important for companies to control their brand image, especially companies who are constantly under surveillance by the media like Apple.