Region: North America

USPTO website ranked world’s most accessible IP office web platform

The USPTO has topped the list of the most accessible IP office websites for the first time, with director Kathi Vidal telling WTR that “it is imperative that our digital resources are accessible to all”.

01 June 2023

Unveiling the legal ink-terplay of tattoos in video games and movies

IP specialist Ceren Aytekin delves into the complex world of tattoo copyright protection in commercial media, exploring recent US court decisions to shine a light on the legal ramifications for artists, celebrities and production companies.

01 June 2023

Hasbro versus Mattel: how best to keep consumers keen on core brands?

Hasbro and Mattel share broadly similar trademark protection strategies, Clarivate data shows. But a closer look at their annual financial reports reveals subtly different approaches to the future of the industry.

31 May 2023

Weeded out: mark for drug paraphernalia described as “essential oil dispenser” refused registration

The TTAB upheld the refusal to register a mark for an “essential oil dispenser” based on extrinsic evidence that the dispenser was primarily used with cannabis extract.

31 May 2023

‘The Banksy of trademarks is back’: controversial millionaire to exhibit at Vegas licensing expo

In an exclusive interview, entrepreneur Mike Lin, known as the ‘Banksy of trademarks’, has revealed that he will be exhibiting at next month’s Licensing Expo 2023 in Las Vegas – with plans for a cease and desist letter competition.

26 May 2023

USPTO to update trademark search; Chinese pop star counterfeit scandal; EMMENTALER descriptive – news digest

In our latest round-up, we look at more responses to INTA’s Dubai Annual Meeting announcement, EUIPO unveiling course on IP Essentials, and much more.

26 May 2023

Federal Circuit ruling demonstrates Dupont factors’ impact on evaluation of similar marks

In affirming a TTAB refusal, an appeal court has promoted the application of the 13 Dupont factors in cases involving substantial similarity between registered and unregistered marks.

25 May 2023

USPTO seeks fee change comments; Amazon and YETI partner up; IPONZ rejects MANUKA HONEY – news digest

In our latest round-up, we look at the City of London Police seizing 3,000 counterfeits, the ICANN77 Policy Forum schedule becoming available, and much more.

23 May 2023

Change afoot at IPEC: why the role of US IP enforcement coordinator matters

WTR analyses US President Joe Biden's nomination of attorney Deborah Robinson to become US intellectual property enforcement coordinator.

19 May 2023

Seven takeaways from USPTO director Kathi Vidal’s INTA keynote

USPTO director Kathi Vidal sat down with INTA’s Jennifer Simmons for a fireside chat that covered a range of topics, including the use of AI, the battle against scams, and anti-counterfeiting efforts.

19 May 2023