Blogs by channel: gTLDs
MARQUES gives gTLDs green light in debate on safeguards
International -
As ICANN’s public comment period to solicit input on how the GAC advice regarding additional safeguards applicable to broad categories of new gTLD strings should be addressed drew to a close, there was a rush of submissions. As a representative of all brand owners, MARQUES has urged a compromise that will allow the online expansion to follow current timelines.
Posted by Trevor Little, on May 15 2013
gTLD programme pushes on, trademark policy challenged
International -
At time of writing, the number of withdrawn gTLD applications stands at 55. For those still in the game and those considering their trademark strategies in the new online space, the Trademark Clearinghouse’s treatment of protection for previously abused names is a hot issue, with an official request for consideration taking aim at the current protection plans.
Posted by Trevor Little, on Apr 30 2013 (2 comments)
Your government needs you… to have your say on gTLD safeguards
International -
ICANN has opened a public comment period – which closes on May 15 – to solicit input on how the GAC advice regarding additional safeguards applicable to broad categories of new gTLD strings should be addressed.
Posted by Trevor Little, on Apr 24 2013
China predicted to be fastest growing market for take-up of IDN gTLDs
China -
Following the ICANN meeting in Beijing last week, the outlook for gTLDs from a purely Asian perspective is worth further examination, particularly for trademark counsel seeking to direct policing activities in the new online space. The CEO of the single largest gTLD applicant from China, has told WTR that he expects the country to adopt internationalised domain names faster than any other market in Asia, making it the one to watch.
Posted by Seher Hussain, on Apr 17 2013
GAC erects roadblock for hundreds of gTLD applications
International -
The Government Advisory Committee has issued its long-awaited communiqué containing advice to the ICANN Board on gTLD applications - advice that will likely delay the progress of a significant number of gTLD applications.
Posted by Trevor Little, on Apr 11 2013
Trademark Clearinghouse clarifies how law firms can act for clients
International -
In a recent blog, WTR considered how law firm counsel can assist their clients in registering marks in the Trademark Clearinghouse (TCMH), specifically for those not wishing to become an official agent. The piece sparked a number of comments and, to clarify the issue, WTR has exclusively spoken to Jan Corstens, project owner for the TCMH.
Posted by Trevor Little, on Apr 04 2013
gTLD trademark disputes on the rise as Clearinghouse opens for business
International -
This week the Trademark Clearinghouse opened for business. While trademark owners consider their strategies, the list of gTLD applications subject to legal rights objections has grown – with applications from such brands as Coach, Merck and Amazon under scrutiny. Elsewhere though, there was good news for Amazon as it prepares for the expanded online space.
Posted by Trevor Little, on Mar 27 2013
ICANN announces intention to bolster gTLD trademark mechanisms
International -
With the organisation due to release its first batch of initial evaluations tomorrow, there was some good news for brand owners in ICANN CEO Fadi Chehadé’s latest update on the strawman model. While not all proposals have been given the green light, he announced the intention to push ahead with plans for trademark claims protection for previously abused names, a 90-Day Trademark Claims period and a 30-day notice requirement for sunrises.
Posted by Trevor Little, on Mar 21 2013
Trademark counsel weigh the costs of being a TMCH agent
International -
With the Trademark Clearinghouse opening its doors for business next week, many law firm counsel are now considering how best to serve their clients in the new gTLD environment. A number have voiced concern that they will be required to register as Trademark Agents – the financial commitment of which could be seen as less than desirable. However, the choice is not ‘agent or nothing’.
Posted by Trevor Little, on Mar 21 2013 (3 comments)
First official gTLD trademark tussle revealed
International -
WIPO, which is tasked with determining gTLD legal rights objections, has revealed details of the first such trademark-based dispute. With more likely to follow, the list of objections will make for important reading for trademark counsel as they plan for the upcoming online expansion.
Posted by Trevor Little, on Mar 18 2013
