Donald Trump Eyes Entry into Telecom Sector: Trademark Filings Hint at Trump-Branded Smartphone and Mobile Network

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U.S. President and business magnate Donald J. Trump appears poised to expand his vast commercial empire into the telecom sector. Recent trademark filings suggest plans for a Trump-branded mobile phone and possibly a dedicated wireless network, signaling the next chapter in Trump’s entrepreneurial journey.

Trump Files for “TRUMP” and “T1” Telecom Trademarks

According to filings made on June 12, 2025, with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), a company linked to Trump — DTTM Operations LLC — has applied for trademarks on the names “TRUMP” and “T1.”

These applications indicate a broad array of products and services, including:

Smartphones

Mobile accessories (chargers, protective cases)

Wireless communication services

Retail outlets offering telecom solutions

Filed on an “intent-to-use” basis, the trademarks suggest Trump may be laying the groundwork for launching a telecom brand, which could potentially operate as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO).

What Could Be Next: The “T1 Phone” and Trump Wireless

While trademark applications don’t guarantee product releases, sources close to the matter suggest that the Trump Organization is considering the launch of a “T1 Phone” — a uniquely designed smartphone bearing the Trump brand.

Some speculative features and offerings could include:

A Made in USA smartphone, likely in a bold gold color scheme

A telecom subscription branded as “The 47 Plan”, possibly priced at $47.45/month

Features such as unlimited calling, data, international texting, and exclusive MAGA-themed services

Customer support and service centers based entirely in the U.S.

Industry insiders also believe the Trump network would function through existing infrastructure by partnering with established telecom giants like AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile under MVNO agreements.

Expansion in Line with Trump’s Brand Strategy

Trump’s move into telecom is consistent with his brand licensing model, which spans real estate, clothing, beverages, online platforms like Truth Social, and more. Since returning to the presidency in 2025, Trump-affiliated companies have reportedly filed over two dozen trademark applications, ranging from digital services to wellness products.

This latest move comes at a strategic time — on the 10th anniversary of Trump’s 2015 presidential campaign launch — underlining his knack for blending politics with personal branding.

Market Response and Potential Challenges

While this venture could appeal to Trump’s core supporter base, industry analysts have flagged several key challenges:

Trademark Conflict: The “T1” name may face legal hurdles due to its similarity with existing brands like T-Mobile.

Supply Chain Barriers: With most smartphones manufactured in Asia, it remains to be seen how Trump will achieve a “Made in USA” label.

Competition: The U.S. mobile market is highly saturated, dominated by tech giants like Apple, Samsung, and Google.

Political and Legal Scrutiny: Concerns over conflicts of interest may arise given Trump’s current presidency and active business ventures.

Despite these hurdles, the branding potential of a Trump telecom brand could make waves in niche markets aligned with political identity and nationalistic appeal.

This article is based on trademark filings and publicly available information as of June 17, 2025. The trademarks have been filed on an “intent-to-use” basis and do not guarantee that the Trump Organization will officially launch a telecom product or service. Any references to future plans are speculative unless confirmed by official sources.

Global Agrochemical Patent Expiry 2026–2028 to Open $1.15 Billion Generic Crop Protection Market

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Patent expiries of key agrochemicals like Cyantraniliprole and Pinoxaden from 2026 to 2028 will unlock $1.15 billion in opportunities for generic crop protection manufacturers.

A new wave of patent expiries in the global agrochemical sector is expected to reshape the competitive landscape between 2026 and 2028, as several high-value crop protection molecules lose their exclusivity. The global market value of these molecules, which include major insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides, is projected at $1.15 billion—a significant opportunity for generic agrochemical manufacturers, particularly in India and other emerging markets.

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 Major Agrochemical Molecules Losing Patents (2026–2028)

The upcoming expirations follow a broader trend since 2021, where over 19 active ingredients have already come off-patent. Key upcoming molecules include:

Cyantraniliprole (2026): A versatile insecticide effective against lepidopteran and sucking pests. Estimated 2019 global market: $120 million.

Pinoxaden (2026): A grass weed herbicide vital in wheat and barley cultivation. Market size in 2019: $421 million.

Sulfoxaflor (2027): Targets sap-feeding insects like aphids and whiteflies in cotton and vegetables. Market valuation in 2019: $190 million.

Benzovindiflupyr (2028): A fungicide for soybeans, corn, cereals, and turf. Global market in 2019: $419 million.

These four agrochemicals collectively accounted for more than $1.15 billion in global sales, marking a significant shift once their patents expire.

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 Generics Market to Witness Major Growth

With these patents set to expire, generic agrochemical manufacturers are preparing to enter the market with competitive formulations, often priced 30–40% lower than branded versions. Countries with established generic production capabilities—such as India and China—stand to benefit the most.

Generic entry is not just about cost-cutting; many players are expected to launch innovative formulations, improved delivery mechanisms, and region-specific products to differentiate themselves.

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 IP Strategies May Delay Entry

Multinational agrochemical companies are expected to protect their market share through secondary patents related to manufacturing processes, co-formulations, or formulation delivery systems. These strategies, although legal, can delay the speed at which generics enter certain markets.

However, industry analysts believe that such protection may not be sufficient in all regions, particularly where regulatory frameworks support generic introductions once the primary patent expires.

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 Benefits for Farmers and Agribusiness

For farmers, particularly in developing countries, the availability of cheaper, effective generics will improve crop protection access and reduce overall input costs. India, for example, stands to gain both economically and strategically through increased local manufacturing and reduced reliance on imports.

Lower costs, combined with improved pest and disease control, will likely enhance agricultural productivity, making farming more sustainable and profitable.

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 Industry Forecast and Market Outlook

This shift toward generic dominance will significantly alter the global agrochemical market structure. With affordability and innovation at the core of this transition, both generic manufacturers and farmers are expected to benefit.

Conclusion

The period from 2026 to 2028 marks a turning point in global crop protection. With over $1.15 billion worth of agrochemical molecules going off-patent, the rise of generics is inevitable. This will not only increase competition but also promote innovation, affordability, and broader access to essential agricultural inputs worldwide.

BSF Unveils Patented Digital Camouflage Uniform; Unauthorized Use Now a Criminal Offence

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In a significant step toward modernization and security enhancement, the Border Security Force (BSF) has officially introduced a new digital camouflage uniform, uniquely tailored for India’s varied terrain and patented to prevent unauthorized reproduction. The move marks a historic shift in the BSF’s operational gear, reinforcing both tactical functionality and legal protection.

Uniform Designed for Operational Excellence

The new BSF uniform has been specially engineered to address the challenges faced by personnel stationed in extreme climates, particularly in desert zones like Rajasthan. The camouflage design—digitally printed with a blend of khaki, green, and brown shades—offers better concealment in diverse landscapes, from arid sands to semi-urban and forested areas. The pixelated pattern, inspired by global military standards, reduces visibility to enemies and ensures optimal blending with the environment.

Advanced Fabric Composition for Harsh Conditions

What sets this uniform apart is its fabric composition: 80% cotton, 19% polyester, and 1% spandex. This mix offers superior breathability, durability, and flexibility, replacing the earlier 50:50 cotton-polyester blend. Notably, the new material provides comfort during peak summer months, where temperatures in the Thar Desert can soar beyond 50°C. According to BSF officials, this fabric is capable of absorbing sweat, allowing faster drying and keeping jawans cooler during prolonged field operations.

Legal Protection Through Patent Registration

A notable feature of the new uniform is its legal backing. The BSF has officially patented the uniform design, making its unauthorized duplication a punishable criminal offence. The patent protection aims to curb the unlawful commercial use of BSF attire, a growing concern following incidents where miscreants and infiltrators misused military-style clothing to impersonate security forces. This legal safeguard will now empower authorities to take action against retailers or individuals found guilty of copying or selling similar designs.

Comprehensive Testing Across Border Regions

Before finalizing the design, the new uniform underwent extensive field trials across multiple states including Rajasthan, Punjab, and West Bengal. Feedback from personnel at the frontline was crucial in refining the material, fit, and color palette. This iterative development process ensured that the final version was not only operationally effective but also met the ergonomic needs of BSF jawans.

Deployment and Strategic Alignment

The rollout of the new uniform is expected to be phased, beginning with high-temperature deployment zones such as Rajasthan. The change also aligns the BSF with other Indian forces like the Army and Air Force, which have already adopted digital camouflage in recent years. BSF officials stated that the transition to this new uniform symbolizes the organization’s continued commitment to modernization, safety, and professionalism.

Closing Thoughts

The launch of the BSF’s new digital camouflage uniform is more than just a wardrobe upgrade—it is a multidimensional step toward operational efficiency, personnel welfare, and national security. By integrating technology, functionality, and legal safeguards, the BSF sets a new benchmark for uniformed forces in India.

AI Revolution Challenges Traditional IP Protection: Experts Warn on Patents and Trade Secrets

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As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly embedded in research and innovation, intellectual property (IP) laws are facing unprecedented challenges. A recent analysis published on IAM by IP experts Christopher Buntel and Tim Londergan titled “AI Is Eating Your IP” warns that AI’s influence is blurring the lines of inventorship, undermining patent reliability, and reshaping trade secret strategies across industries.

AI’s Growing Role in Innovation: A Legal Dilemma

The traditional IP system—designed around human inventors—is being tested by AI-driven developments. From biotech to software, AI models now generate ideas, molecules, and inventions, often with limited human involvement. This automation forces a reassessment of the concept of “inventorship,” which remains a legally human-centric standard.

Experts caution that while humans may still be listed as inventors on patent applications, the actual contribution of AI must not be overlooked. Patent offices and courts could soon require stronger evidence of human input to validate inventorship claims and maintain enforceability.

Rising Standards: The Obviousness Problem

One major concern is how AI’s predictive capabilities could raise the legal threshold for what is considered “non-obvious.” If AI can easily arrive at a particular invention using existing data and algorithms, patent examiners might classify the invention as obvious—even if it would have previously been deemed novel.

This presents a strategic risk for patent filers. To avoid invalidation, inventors and companies are being urged to document the precise role of human creativity in the development process, distinguishing it from what AI merely suggested or generated.

From Patent to Trade Secret: The Shifting Battlefield

As the patent process becomes more uncertain due to AI’s expanding capabilities, many companies are increasingly turning to trade secrets to protect their innovations. However, the AI era presents new vulnerabilities here as well.

AI tools are becoming capable of reverse-engineering not only physical products but also data-driven models, algorithms, and operational strategies—traditionally safeguarded as trade secrets. What was once protected due to its complexity can now be potentially deciphered by an AI system trained on publicly available information.

A New Approach to Trade Secret Protection

Buntel and Londergan emphasize the need for a shift in how trade secrets are identified and managed. Rather than relying solely on protecting discrete elements such as formulas or algorithms, companies must focus on securing system-level secrets—the intricate interplay of data pipelines, operational workflows, business logic, and technical frameworks.

Comprehensive documentation is key. Businesses should meticulously record not only the individual components but also the architecture of how these parts work together. This makes it significantly harder for AI-driven reverse engineering to uncover the broader value proposition behind the protected information.

Strategic Recommendations for IP Stakeholders

In the face of this evolving landscape, the article offers a roadmap for companies to safeguard their IP:

For patent filers: Clearly document the human contribution to any AI-assisted invention. Demonstrating a human “spark of ingenuity” is vital.

For trade secret managers: Focus on documenting entire systems and workflows rather than isolated technical know-how.

For legal teams: Prepare to adapt IP strategies that combine traditional protections with emerging risks posed by AI capabilities.

Conclusion: A Call to Action in the Age of AI

The emergence of AI as a co-creator of innovation is not just a technical shift—it’s a legal and strategic one. As Buntel and Londergan stress, intellectual property professionals must evolve their methods or risk being outpaced by the very tools that were meant to empower them. Whether through more rigorous documentation, revised IP frameworks, or a more holistic understanding of value creation, adapting to the age of AI is no longer optional—it’s essential.

Bombay High Court Overturns Trademark Refusal for Yamaha’s ‘WR’ Mark; Directs Fresh Review

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In a significant ruling with implications for global brand protection and Indian intellectual property procedures, the Bombay High Court has set aside an order by the Registrar of Trade Marks that denied Japanese automobile manufacturer Yamaha the registration of its ‘WR’ trademark in India. The High Court directed that the matter be reconsidered in accordance with proper legal procedures.

Background of the Case

Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha, the Japanese two-wheeler giant, had applied to register the mark “WR” in India for its upcoming motorcycle lineup. However, the Registrar of Trade Marks rejected the application, citing potential confusion with Honda’s existing automobile trademark “WR-V.” The Registrar reasoned that the similarity between the marks could mislead consumers, as both were associated with the automobile sector.

Yamaha challenged the decision before the Bombay High Court, arguing that the Registrar had failed to consider the global reputation and prior use of the ‘WR’ mark, which the company has employed across international markets since 1990.

Court’s Observations

Justice Manish Pitale, who presided over the case, criticized the Registrar’s order for being inadequately reasoned and procedurally flawed. The Court highlighted that the Registrar did not justify the outright rejection of Yamaha’s application under Section 11(1) of the Trade Marks Act, nor did it examine whether the case fell under “exceptional circumstances” that would allow bypassing the standard publication and objection process under Section 20(1).

The judge emphasized that the Registrar should have published the trademark application to invite public objections, rather than rejecting it outright without offering Yamaha a fair chance to defend its claim.

Global Reputation and Coexistence

One of Yamaha’s central arguments was its long-standing use of the “WR” mark in over 60 countries, including several markets where Honda’s “WR-V” also exists. The company contended that there had been no significant incidents of consumer confusion internationally, asserting that the Indian market should not be viewed differently without strong evidence.

The Court acknowledged this claim, noting that the Registrar failed to give due weight to Yamaha’s global standing and its specific use of the “WR” mark exclusively for motorcycles, in contrast to Honda’s application of “WR-V” for cars.

Court’s Direction

Setting aside the Registrar’s order, the Bombay High Court instructed that Yamaha’s application be reconsidered afresh. The Registrar has been ordered to issue a public notice inviting objections, as per the standard legal process, and to evaluate the matter based on the objections received—if any.

Justice Pitale clarified that the decision must be based on a proper legal analysis that includes the nature of the marks, their industry classification, and the distinctiveness of Yamaha’s use case.

Legal and Commercial Implications

This ruling sets an important precedent in Indian trademark jurisprudence. It reiterates that trademark authorities must apply procedural fairness and must not arbitrarily reject applications, especially when there is evidence of longstanding international use and brand recognition.

Legal experts suggest this case may influence how authorities interpret the potential for confusion between trademarks in overlapping but distinct product categories, such as two-wheelers and four-wheelers.

What’s Next

Yamaha’s application will now return to the Trade Marks Registry for re-evaluation. The public notice process under Section 20(1) is expected to follow, during which time interested parties, including competitors like Honda, may file objections. A final decision will be taken after evaluating any objections and considering Yamaha’s defense, if needed.

Should Yamaha succeed, the company may proceed with launching its WR-series motorcycles in the Indian market under a trademark that reflects its international branding.

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Key Legal References:

Section 11(1) – Refusal of registration due to likelihood of confusion

Section 20(1) – Mandatory publication of application for public objections

Stellantis Secures U.S. Patent for Advanced Three-Speed Gear Reducer, Enhancing EV Drivetrain Performance

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Stellantis (FCA US, LLC) has been officially awarded a United States patent for an innovative three-speed gear reducer designed specifically for electric drive modules (EDMs), signaling a pivotal advancement in electric vehicle (EV) powertrain technology. The patent, filed on October 25, 2023, and granted on May 1, 2025, by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), positions the automaker to deliver smarter, more versatile drivetrains across its EV lineup.

The newly patented gear reducer represents a leap forward in addressing one of the most persistent challenges in electric mobility: balancing low-end torque for off-road and towing performance with high-speed efficiency for highway travel. Traditional EVs typically utilize single-speed gearboxes, which, while mechanically simpler, limit drivetrain adaptability across varying driving conditions.

According to the patent filing, Stellantis’ three-speed gear reducer integrates a compact yet robust configuration that can shift seamlessly between ratios, offering increased torque at lower speeds and improved efficiency at higher speeds without sacrificing packaging space. This technology is expected to support a wide range of applications—from rugged off-road SUVs under the Jeep badge to high-performance EVs and even commercial vehicles.

Industry analysts suggest that this development could give Stellantis a significant edge in the competitive EV market, especially as consumer demand grows for electric models capable of handling diverse driving scenarios. The gear reducer may enable EVs from Stellantis to offer improved towing capacity, better range optimization, and enhanced overall drivability.

This innovation reflects Stellantis’ ongoing push to modernize its powertrain systems in alignment with its “Dare Forward 2030” strategy, which targets over 50% of sales in the U.S. and 100% in Europe to be battery electric vehicles (BEVs) by the end of the decade.

While Stellantis has not yet announced specific vehicle models to feature the new three-speed gear reducer, insiders speculate that future iterations of vehicles like the Jeep Recon, Ram REV, or even high-performance Dodge EVs could incorporate this groundbreaking system.

With this patent, Stellantis reinforces its commitment to EV innovation, offering a strong signal that traditional automakers are serious contenders in shaping the next generation of electric mobility.

TVS Patents ‘Orbiter’ Name for Upcoming Electric Scooter: Launch Expected Later in 2025

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TVS Motor Company, one of India’s leading two-wheeler manufacturers, has taken a significant step in expanding its electric vehicle (EV) portfolio by securing a trademark for a new nameplate — TVS Orbiter. The development has sparked strong industry speculation about a forthcoming electric scooter under this new brand name, expected to launch later this year.

Trademark Filing Suggests New EV Product

According to public records, TVS has officially registered the “Orbiter” nameplate, indicating the company’s intention to introduce a new product under this branding. Industry observers believe that the Orbiter could be an all-new entry-level electric scooter, positioned below the existing TVS iQube range. The new product is anticipated to cater to price-sensitive urban commuters looking for an affordable and sustainable transportation option.

While TVS has filed for other trademarks in the past, such as “EV One” and the single letter “O”, insiders suggest that “Orbiter” is the name most likely to be used for the upcoming model.

Targeted at Budget-Conscious Buyers

TVS currently retails the iQube series at prices starting above ₹1 lakh, depending on the variant and subsidies. The Orbiter, on the other hand, is expected to be priced below ₹1 lakh, making it an appealing choice for young and first-time electric vehicle buyers. With the rising demand for affordable electric mobility, the Orbiter may fill a crucial gap in the market.

Sources suggest that TVS aims to launch the Orbiter around the festive season later this year — typically a high-sales period for the Indian automobile industry.

Likely Features and Technical Expectations

Though official specifications are yet to be released, it is expected that the TVS Orbiter will come equipped with:

A hub-mounted electric motor sourced from Bosch or a similar supplier

A smaller lithium-ion battery pack than the iQube for cost-efficiency

A range of around 80 km per charge, adequate for daily city commutes

Modern features such as LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and connected tech options similar to its older sibling, the iQube


Design-wise, the Orbiter may feature a streamlined, sporty aesthetic with a compact footprint tailored for maneuverability in city traffic. Patent drawings and design leaks from previous filings hint at a practical yet youthful design language.

TVS’s Broader EV Strategy

This move aligns with TVS Motor Company’s aggressive expansion in the electric vehicle segment. The brand has already tasted success with the iQube, which recorded over 24,500 unit sales in May 2025 alone. By introducing a more budget-friendly model, TVS aims to widen its reach and reinforce its position in India’s competitive EV two-wheeler segment.

The Orbiter is also expected to play a strategic role as TVS competes with rivals like Ola Electric, Ather Energy, Bajaj (Chetak), and Hero Electric, all of which have either launched or are planning to launch sub-₹1 lakh EV models.

What Lies Ahead?

While TVS has yet to officially announce the Orbiter’s launch date or detailed specifications, industry chatter and the recent trademark filing strongly suggest that development is in advanced stages. If launched with an appealing price tag and reliable performance, the Orbiter could become one of the top contenders in India’s mass-market EV segment.


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Conclusion

TVS’s decision to patent the “Orbiter” nameplate signals a major step toward introducing a new, more affordable electric scooter tailored for the masses. With a growing appetite for green mobility, rising fuel prices, and government incentives backing EV adoption, the Orbiter could emerge as a smart, practical choice for India’s urban commuters when it debuts later this year.

VCARE InfoTech Renames Itself as “Newgen IT Technologies,” Faces Legal Action from Newgen Software Over Trademark Infringement

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In a significant development in the realm of intellectual property rights, VCARE InfoTech has found itself entangled in a legal dispute after rebranding itself as “Newgen IT Technologies,” despite being aware of the registered trademark held by Newgen Software Technologies Limited. The Delhi-based software solutions firm initiated legal proceedings, leading to the court granting an interim injunction against the use of the infringing name.

Trademark Dispute Sparks Legal Action

The conflict began when VCARE InfoTech, during the course of a business partnership, decided to change its corporate identity to “Newgen IT Technologies.” According to court documents, the company was fully aware of Newgen Software’s established brand identity and registered trademarks in the technology and software sectors.

Newgen Software, a globally recognized digital transformation solutions provider with decades of market presence, argued that the renaming constituted deliberate trademark infringement and was likely to cause confusion among customers, clients, and partners. The company filed a suit before a competent court seeking immediate injunctive relief to prevent VCARE from using the name.

Court Grants Interim Injunction

After examining the facts and submissions from both sides, the court ruled in favor of Newgen Software. It noted that VCARE InfoTech’s adoption of a deceptively similar name not only violated trademark laws but also indicated dishonest intent, especially since the company had acknowledged the plaintiff’s rights in the mark “Newgen.”

The court emphasized that trademark law protects both brand reputation and consumer interest, and such usage could mislead stakeholders into believing there was an association or endorsement by Newgen Software.

In its interim order, the court restrained VCARE InfoTech from using the name “Newgen IT Technologies” in any form—whether as part of its corporate identity, marketing materials, or domain names—until final adjudication of the case.

Acknowledgment of Trademark Proves Costly

One of the most critical aspects of the court’s reasoning was that VCARE InfoTech had prior knowledge of the “Newgen” trademark and its association with Newgen Software. This undermined any defense of unintentional infringement. Legal experts opined that this could amount to “willful infringement,” which may attract stringent penalties under Indian intellectual property law.

“Awareness of a registered trademark followed by the adoption of a deceptively similar name can significantly weaken the defense in any trademark case,” said an IP law expert based in Delhi. “Courts are generally inclined to protect well-established brands, especially when the risk of confusion is high.”

Implications for Business Partnerships and Rebranding

This case also underscores the need for due diligence during corporate rebranding, particularly during mergers, acquisitions, or partnerships. Businesses are advised to conduct comprehensive trademark clearance searches and seek legal opinions before adopting new names that may conflict with existing intellectual property.

Failure to do so can not only result in costly legal battles but also damage business reputation and operations, especially if a court-ordered injunction halts the use of a newly adopted identity.

Way Forward

The case is still pending final resolution. VCARE InfoTech, now legally barred from using the name “Newgen IT Technologies,” has yet to publicly respond to the court’s decision. Newgen Software, meanwhile, reiterated its commitment to protecting its intellectual property and maintaining brand integrity.

This legal episode serves as a critical reminder for businesses navigating the complex space of branding and trademarks: awareness of an existing mark does not excuse its infringement—and may, in fact, make matters worse.

Bombay High Court Upholds Registrar’s Refusal to Recognize ‘TikTok’ as a Well-Known Trademark Amid India Ban

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The Bombay High Court has upheld the decision of the Registrar of Trade Marks rejecting the application to designate the term “TikTok” as a well-known trademark under the Trade Marks Act, 1999. The court emphasized that the app’s ban in India was a legitimate and relevant factor in the decision-making process.

Justice Manish Pitale, presiding as a single-judge bench, dismissed a plea seeking to quash the Registrar’s refusal, stating that the application was unsustainable in light of the app’s current legal status in the country.

TikTok Ban Plays Pivotal Role

TikTok, a globally popular short-video social media application owned by Chinese tech company ByteDance, has been banned in India since June 2020 due to national security concerns. This ban, the court observed, directly impacts the platform’s public perception and continued presence in the Indian market, which are critical parameters in trademark recognition.

The court cited Section 11(6) of the Trade Marks Act, which outlines the criteria to determine whether a trademark can be categorized as “well-known”. The provision allows the Registrar to consider any factor deemed relevant in the interest of assessing the mark’s familiarity, extent of use, and recognition among the public.

“The fact that TikTok is banned in India is not merely incidental but materially affects its claim to fame and distinctiveness in the Indian jurisdiction,” Justice Pitale noted. He added that since the app is no longer legally available or in commercial use in India, it fails to satisfy the test of continued and widespread recognition among the Indian public.

Implications for Foreign Trademarks

The court’s ruling could serve as a precedent for similar applications involving brands that are globally recognized but face legal or operational hurdles in India. Legal experts suggest that this decision reiterates that the well-known status of a mark is jurisdiction-specific and heavily influenced by real-time market presence.

“This judgment makes it clear that foreign entities seeking well-known trademark status in India must demonstrate not just historic popularity, but active, legal engagement with the Indian market,” said a Mumbai-based IP attorney.

TikTok’s Legal Strategy Faces Setback

The applicant had argued that despite the ban, TikTok retained its status as a globally celebrated brand and that its previous popularity in India merited recognition. However, both the Registrar and the High Court disagreed, highlighting that consumer perception must be evaluated in the present, not retrospectively.

TikTok’s parent company has not yet issued a public response to the High Court’s verdict. It remains to be seen whether the company will approach the Supreme Court to challenge the decision.

Conclusion

The Bombay High Court’s decision reinforces the principle that real-time, legal availability and market presence are vital in determining a trademark’s reputation in India. With the ban on TikTok still in effect, its aspirations for recognition as a well-known mark within the Indian legal framework have suffered a significant legal blow.

Delhi High Court Grants Interim Relief to Burger Singh in Trademark Infringement Dispute

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In a significant development for brand protection in India’s fast-food industry, the Delhi High Court has granted interim relief to homegrown quick-service restaurant chain Burger Singh in a trademark infringement case. The court’s order restrains a former franchisee from continuing to use the company’s trademark following the termination of their business relationship.

Background of the Dispute

The legal action was initiated by Tipping Mr Pink Pvt. Ltd., the parent company of Burger Singh, after it discovered that one of its former franchisees in Patna, Bihar, continued operating under the “Burger Singh” name and associated branding, even after the franchise agreement was terminated.

The plaintiff alleged that the unauthorized use of its registered trademark and distinctive branding elements, including logos and packaging, was causing confusion among customers and harming the brand’s reputation. The company claimed this constituted trademark infringement and passing off.

Court’s Observations and Ruling

The Delhi High Court, after reviewing the documents and hearing initial arguments, found merit in the plaintiff’s claim and issued an interim injunction. The court directed the former franchisee to immediately cease the use of the “Burger Singh” mark or any deceptively similar brand name, logos, or signage until the final adjudication of the matter.

The order was passed by Justice Sanjeev Narula, who stated that prima facie evidence suggested that the continued use of the brand by the ex-franchisee could mislead the public and unjustly exploit the goodwill and market recognition of the original brand.

Legal Counsel and Representation

Burger Singh was represented by Advocate Jayant Kumar, who argued that allowing the former franchisee to operate under the same name post-termination would undermine the integrity of the trademark system and violate the terms of the franchise agreement.

The legal team also emphasized that continued misuse of the brand identity posed a risk of irreparable harm, especially in an industry where consumer loyalty is deeply tied to brand perception and consistency.

Impact and Industry Significance

This interim relief reinforces the rights of franchisors in India to protect their intellectual property, even after a franchise agreement has ended. The order sends a strong signal to franchisees about the legal risks of unauthorized brand use and the importance of adhering to contractual obligations.

The judgment is expected to set a precedent for similar disputes, particularly as the Indian food and beverage sector witnesses rapid expansion through franchising models. It also underlines the importance of trademark registration and enforcement as key tools in brand management.

What Lies Ahead

The case will now proceed to the next phase, where the court will hear further arguments, review contractual documentation, and assess damages, if any. The outcome of the full trial will determine whether a permanent injunction is warranted and if the plaintiff is entitled to any compensatory relief.

Meanwhile, Burger Singh continues to operate more than 100 outlets across India and abroad, and the company has reiterated its commitment to maintaining brand integrity through strict legal compliance and oversight.