Google's Gemini trademark faces objection due to existing Gemini TV mark in India

Google's attempt to register its 'Gemini' trademark is hindered by existing rights held by Sun TV, highlighting the competitive landscape for AI branding in India. This follows similar challenges faced by OpenAI and Elon Musk's X, raising concerns over trademark clarity in the tech sector.

Sources:
Bar and Bench
Updated 1h ago
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Sources: Bar and Bench
Google's application to register the trademark "Gemini" for its generative AI platform has encountered a significant hurdle in India. The trademark registry has raised objections based on the existing "Gemini TV" trademarks owned by Sun TV, which operates various regional entertainment and news channels.

The trademark registration process involves several steps, including filing an application under relevant classes and examination by the Registry. Objections can arise under Section 9 for generic or non-distinctive marks or Section 11 for likelihood of confusion with prior marks. In this case, the Registry's objection is rooted in the potential for confusion with the established "Gemini TV" brand.

This incident is part of a broader trend where major tech companies face challenges in trademark registrations. For instance, OpenAI has faced opposition for its ChatGPT trademark from a Bengaluru-based startup, while Elon Musk's X encountered a refusal for the "Grok" trademark due to an existing mark.

As the tech landscape evolves, the implications of these trademark disputes could affect branding strategies and market positioning for companies like Google.
Google's attempt to register the trademark "Gemini" for its AI platform in India has been challenged due to existing trademarks held by Sun TV for "Gemini TV," highlighting ongoing trademark disputes in the tech industry.
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The Headline

Google's Gemini trademark objection details

Key Facts
  • Google's application to register the trademark 'Gemini' has been objected to by the Registry due to the existing 'Gemini TV' mark owned by Sun TV, which operates regional entertainment channels in India.Bar and Bench
Key Stats at a Glance
Class of trademark application for Gemini
Class 9
Bar and Bench
Background Context

Context on trademark challenges in India

Key Facts
  • OpenAI's trademark for 'ChatGPT' is facing formal opposition from Flaxxi AI, which claims it adopted the mark in 2022, prior to OpenAI's registration.Bar and Bench
  • Elon Musk's X received a provisional refusal for the 'Grok' trademark due to an existing mark 'Groke', registered for marine navigation software.Bar and Bench
  • Trademark registration in India involves a standard process that includes filing an application and examination by the Registry, which may raise objections under specific sections of the Trade Marks Act.Bar and Bench
Key Stats at a Glance
Sections of the Trade Marks Act that may raise objections
Section 9 and Section 11
Bar and Bench
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