Archives for December 2022

The Mickey Mouse Copyright – THE ULTIMATE GUIDE

December 30, 2022 by Michael Kondoudis

The copyright to Mickey Mouse is soon coming to an end, which will have important legal implications for this iconic character.

By Michael Kondoudis, Trademark Attorney

This is our ULTIMATE guide to the Mickey Mouse copyright.

For almost 100 years, Disney has been fiercely protective of its most iconic character—Mickey Mouse. Disney holds the copyright to this beloved character, but it won’t last forever. In 2023, the copyright protection to the likeness of Mickey Mouse will end. After that, Mickey Mouse will enter the public domain, meaning anyone can use the character in their creative works without Disney’s permission or payment.

If you want to know why this is happening and what it means for Mickey Mouse, read on. This guide explains all you need to know about the Mickey Mouse copyright.

In this guide, we discuss:

> The Basics of Copyrights

> The Mickey Mouse Copyright

> The End of the Mickey Mouse Copyright

> Disney’s Trademarks for Mickey Mouse

Let’s jump in!

1. The Basics of Copyrights

What Is a Copyright?

A copyright is a legal right that protects creative works by ensuring that creators have exclusive ownership over their works, such as books, music, films, poems, artwork, and software. This legal right gives the owner exclusive rights over how their material is used and distributed. Every copyright owner has the exclusive right to reproduce and distribute their original works.

A copyright gives the creator (author or owner) exclusive rights to reproduce a creative work and distribute copies or recordings of it. The copyright holder has the right to prevent others from using their work without permission.

A copyright is a form of intellectual property, along with patents (for inventions) and trademarks (for brands).

What Do Copyrights Protect?

Copyrights protect original creative works from unauthorized copying or use. Examples of creative works protected by copyright include books, poems, plays, films, paintings, photographs, illustrations, tv shows, songs, videos, and even software.

How Long Does a Copyright Last?

Copyrights last for a limited time and must be renewed periodically to remain in effect. The length of time a copyright lasts depends on the country where the work was created and published.

In the United States, copyrights generally last for the life of the author plus an additional 70 years.

However, copyrights for works created by anonymous authors or corporations (like Disney) are only protected for 95 years from the date of first publication.

What Happens After a Copyright Expires?

After the copyright expires, the creative work falls into the public domain. Anyone can use a work in the public domain without permission or payment to the copyright holder. This includes making copies of the creative work and distributing transformative versions of it.

2. The Mickey Mouse Copyright

What is the Mickey Mouse Copyright?

A Mickey Mouse copyright is a copyright that protects the likeness of Mickey Mouse, the famous cartoon character. Disney Inc owns the Mickey Mouse copyright. The Mickey Mouse copyright gives Disney the exclusive right to use the Mickey Mouse character in creative works like movies, tv shows, and live performances.

What Does the Mickey Mouse Copyright Protect Against?

The Mickey Mouse copyright protects against unauthorized copying and use of the likeness of Mickey Mouse in creative works such as films, movies, books, tv shows, and live performances.

Steamboat Willie, 1928

The History of Mickey Mouse Copyright Protection

Mickey Mouse first made his debut on November 18th, 1928, in a film short called Steamboat Willie. This lovable mouse was an instant hit, and Walt Disney wanted to protect him from being copied by other studios. So, Walt registered a copyright on December 16th of that same year. This gave Disney exclusive rights to create cartoons featuring Mickey Mouse and merchandise and toys related to the character.

When Does the Mickey Mouse Copyright Expire?

2023: The Mickey Mouse copyright expires in 2023.

3. The End of The Mickey Mouse Copyright

Why Is the Copyright to Mickey Mouse Ending?

The reason is that copyrights have limited lifespans under federal law and copyrights for works created by corporations (like Disney) are only protected for 95 years from the date of first publication. This is why the Mickey Mouse copyright is coming to an end. Disney first published Mickey mouse in 1928, so the copyright for Mickey Mouse will expire in 2023 – 95 years after its first publication.

What Happens After the Mickey Mouse Copyright Expires?

When a copyright expires, anyone can use the copyrighted material without permission or payment. This applies to both commercial and non-commercial works. After the Mickey Mouse copyright expires in 2023, anyone will be able to create derivative works using his likeness without getting Disney’s permission.

When is the Mickey Mouse Copyright Going to Expire?

2023: The Mickey Mouse copyright will expire in 2023.

Can Mickey Mouse Copyright be Renewed?

No, the Mickey Mouse copyright cannot be renewed. It will expire in 2023 – 95 years after Disney published Mickey Mouse for the first time.

Why Does the End of the Mickey Mouse Copyright Matter?

When a work enters the public domain, anyone can use it without permission from its original creator or owner. For example, artists who want to use Mickey Mouse in their creative works must first get permission from Disney (the current copyright holder) until November 2023. After that date, the copyright will expire, Mickey Mouse will enter the public domain, and artists will not need Disney’s permission to use Mickey Mouse.

Can Disney Renew the Copyright for Mickey Mouse?

No, Disney cannot renew the copyright for Mickey Mouse. The copyright will expire by law in 2023. Disney cannot obtain a Mickey Mouse copyright extension.

However, Disney also still owns trademarks for Mickey Mouse, which do not expire in 2023.

When Will Mickey Mouse be in the Public Domain?

The copyright for Mickey Mouse will expire in 2023. After 2023, Mickey Mouse will enter the public domain.

4. Beware of Disney’s Mickey Mouse Trademarks

Disney Still Owns Mickey Mouse Trademarks

Although the imagery for Mickey Mouse will enter the public domain, The Walt Disney Company still owns trademarks for the Mickey Mouse name and thousands of symbols associated with the character. Trademark protections last as long as Disney continues to use Mickey Mouse as a brand. If anyone uses the Mickey Mouse imagery in a way that people will think of Disney, that may constitute trademark infringement.

U.S. Trademark No. 315,056 for MICKEY MOUSE

A Word of Warning

While copyright protection will expire on Mickey Mouse himself, Disney still owns trademarks on several aspects related to him, such as his name, likeness, and design elements associated with him, like his signature ears and gloves. So, companies still have to adhere to certain restrictions when using these elements in their work or products.

Michael Kondoudis

For more than twenty years, Michael Kondoudis has been the go-to trademarking expert for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Michael is a USPTO-licensed trademark and patent attorney, educator, speaker, and author of the Amazon best-seller: Going From Business Owner to Brand Owner. He is also an authority trusted by national news media on major trademark stories.

Fun Facts: Michael is a member of the Bar of the U.S. Supreme Court and an actual rocket scientist (B.S. Astronomy and Astrophysics, Indiana University 1994).

www.mekiplaw.com

Trademark Serial Number vs Registration Number

December 16, 2022 by Michael Kondoudis

Serial Numbers are assigned to trademark applications when they are filed with the USPTO while Registration Numbers are assigned to when trademark applications are granted.

By Michael Kondoudis, Small Business Trademark Attorney

This is our EASY guide to trademark serial numbers and registration numbers. If you need to know what these numbers are, what they mean, and where to find them, then this guide is for you. In this guide, we discuss:

Part I: Trademark Serial Numbers

- what they are
- what they look like
- what the mean
- where to find them

Part II: Trademark Registration Numbers

- what they are
- what they look like
- what the mean
- where to find them

Part III: How Trademark Serial Numbers And Registration Numbers Differ

Part IV: Condensed Summary of Trademark Numbers

I. Trademark Serial Numbers

What Is A Trademark Serial Number?

A trademark serial number is a number that is assigned to a pending trademark application.

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) provides trademark serial numbers. The USPTO gives a serial number to every trademark application. The USPTO assigns serial numbers to trademark applications when they are filed.

When a trademark application is filed, the USPTO generates an Official Filing Receipt with a serial number.

What Does a Trademark Serial Number Look Like?

Trademark serial numbers are unique eight-digit numbers assigned by the USPTO to all trademark applications. A trademark serial number looks like this:

90/456,123

Where Can I Find My Trademark Serial Number?

Every item of official correspondence issued by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) includes a trademark serial number. The easiest places to find a trademark serial number is to review the Official Filing Receipt or a Notice of Publication.

Trademark Filing Receipt for U.S. Trademark Application No. 86/915,697

Notice of Publication for U.S. Trademark Application No. 86/915,697

How Long Does It Take To Get A Trademark Serial Number?

0 seconds. The USPTO assigns a trademark serial number to every trademark application that it accepts for examination. Trademark serial numbers are assigned immediately after a trademark application is filed.

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New Applications – Legally own your trademark.

Office Actions – We can navigate the trademarking process at the USPTO.

Enforcement – Flex your trademark rights. Stop copycats.

Why Is A Trademark Serial Number Important?

Trademark serial numbers are used to identify trademark applications. At any one time, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) may be responsible for considering hundreds of thousands of trademark applications. Assigning a unique number to each pending trademark application avoids confusion.

Trademark serial numbers have important uses.

Applicants can use serial numbers to check and monitor their trademark applications’ progress and identify submissions that relate to their applications.

The USPTO relies on trademark serial numbers to facilitate the processing of applications and match official correspondence with pending applications.

Every letter sent by the USPTO about a trademark application includes the relevant trademark serial number.

II. Trademark Registration Numbers

What Is A Trademark Registration Number?

A trademark registration number is a number that is assigned to a registered trademark.

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) provides trademark registration numbers. The USPTO gives a registration number to every granted trademark application. The USPTO assigns registration numbers when trademark applications are granted.

When a trademark application is granted, the USPTO generates a Registration Certificate that includes a registration number.

What Does A Trademark Registration Number Look Like?

Trademark registration numbers are unique seven-digit numbers assigned by the USPTO to all granted trademark applications. A trademark regsitration number looks like this:

5,132,639

How Long Does It Take To Get A Registration Number?

Typically, between 12-17 months. The USPTO assigns registration numbers to applications when they complete the examination process, which usually takes between 12-17 months.

Where Can I Find My Trademark Registration Number?

Every Registration Certificate issued by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) includes a trademark serial number.

Registration Certificate for US Trademark No. 5,365,541

Why is a trademark registration number important?

Trademark serial numbers signify that a trademark is registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Once the USPTO has assigned a registration number, a trademark owner is legally permitted to use the ® trademark symbol. Only a federally registered trademark owner can use the ® trademark symbol. It is against the law to use the ® symbol before you receive a trademark registration number.

Trademark serial numbers have important uses.

Applicants can use registration numbers to check and monitor the health and status of their trademark registrations and identify submissions to the USPTO related to their registrations.

III. Serial vs. Registration Numbers

Trademark Serial Number vs Registration Number

Trademark serial numbers and registration numbers differ in the following ways:

• Timing – Trademark serial numbers are assigned when applications are filed, while trademark registration numbers are assigned when applications are granted.

• Format + Length – Trademark serial numbers are eight digits, while trademark registration numbers are seven digits.

• Significance – Trademark serial numbers identify a trademark application, while a trademark registration number indicates a registered trademark.

Trademark serial numbers and registration numbers are similar in the following ways:

• Source – Both are assigned by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

• Purpose – Both relate to trademarks at the USPTO

• Utility – Both are used to check the status of a trademark at the USPTO

Is A Trademark Serial Number The Same As A Registration Number?

No, trademark serial numbers and trademark registration numbers are not the same. Trademark serial numbers and trademark registration numbers are different. Trademark serial numbers differ from trademark registration numbers in format, length, and meaning.

A Serial Number is given by the USPTO automatically after the filing of a trademark application, whereas a Registration Number is given by the USPTO registers your trademark.

IV. Condensed Summary

When a company or individual registers a name, logo, or phrase with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), they receive two important numbers – a trademark serial number and a trademark registration number. These trademark numbers ar every different. It’s important to know the difference between these two kinds of numbers in order to make sure you’re protecting your trademark correctly.

A trademark serial number is an eight-digit code that is assigned to each application for a trademark that is filed with the USPTO. This identifies the specific mark within the database of registered trademarks. The number looks like this: 87/110,654.

A trademark registration number is a unique 7-digit numeric identifier that indicates your mark has been officially registered by the USPTO. It looks like this: 6,425,567.

The two numbers serve different purposes – while a trademark serial number helps identify and track a trademark application, the trademark registration number is proof that your mark has been officially registered.

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Michael Kondoudis

Fun Facts: Michael is a member of the Bar of the U.S. Supreme Court and an actual rocket scientist (B.S. Astronomy and Astrophysics, Indiana University 1994).

www.mekiplaw.com

Can You Trademark a Number? – AN EASY GUIDE

December 15, 2022 by Michael Kondoudis

You can trademark a number when it is used a brand for services and products. Numbers can be trademarked when they are used in commerce as brands, just like names, logos, and phrases.

By Michael Kondoudis, Trademark Attorney

Introduction

Can you trademark a number? This is a question that we get asked often, and the answer may surprise you. Here’s what you need to know about trademarks and numbers.

What is a Trademark?

Before we answer the question of whether or not you can trademark a number, it’s important to understand what exactly constitutes a trademark. A trademark is any word, symbol, phrase, logo, device, or combination thereof that identifies and distinguishes your product or service from those offered by other businesses. Generally speaking, trademarks serve two primary purposes: they protect your brand identity and they help customers differentiate between different brands in the same industry.

Can you trademark a number?

Yes, you can trademark a number and many numbers are trademarked!

Do you need help with your trademark?

Examples of trademarked numbers

007 is a brand of motion pictures
501 is a brand of clothing
23 is a personal brand of Michael Jordan
WD-40 is a brand of lubricating oil
FORTUNE 500 is a brand of business/financial information

What is needed to trademark a number?

To trademark a number, the number must be used in commerce as a brand to identify and distinguish a product or service from the competition. If the number is only used for decoration or ornamentation, it cannot be trademarked.

Additionally, any numbers that are used as trademarks must be unique and distinctive. If a number is too similar to other existing number trademarks, it will likely not qualify for trademark protection.

How to trademark a number

To trademark a number, you must submit an application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This is an important step to ensure that no one else has trademarked the same or similar numbers as yours. Once your trademark registration is approved, you will be protected for up to 10 years from anyone attempting to use your trademark in a commercial setting without permission.

The benefits of trademarking a number

Trademarking a number comes with many benefits, including official legal ownership, the exclusive right to use it in your industry, and enhanced legal tools to make protecting your legal rights easier.

Trademarking a unique and distinctive number can provide many benefits for businesses and individuals alike – from providing legal protection against infringement and counterfeiting to helping customers recognize and remember your product or service more easily. Additionally, when done properly, trademarking a unique number can also help create brand loyalty and recognition over time by making your product/service stand out from competitors who do not employ this tactic.

In sum, trademarking a number can provide you with the peace of mind that others will not be able to use it without your permission.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

Take next step toward LEGALLY owning your trademark!

We have a simple, 5 step process we use to help our clients secure their trademarks. If you’re interested in protecting your mark, we invite you to book a FREE brand protection strategy session with us here.

Michael Kondoudis

Fun Facts: Michael is a member of the Bar of the U.S. Supreme Court and an actual rocket scientist (B.S. Astronomy and Astrophysics, Indiana University 1994).

www.mekiplaw.com

What is a Trademark Statement of Use? – AN EASY GUIDE

December 14, 2022 by Michael Kondoudis

A Statement of Use is a document filed with the USPTO to indicate that you are using your trademark in commerce. It is only required in some applications.

By Michael Kondoudis, Small Business Trademark Attorney

This is our ULTIMATE guide to trademark Statements of Use. If you have questions about Statements of Use for trademarks, then this guide is for you.

In this guide we discuss:

→ The Basics of USPTO Statements of Use

→ How, When, and Where to File a Statement of Use

→ The Requirements for Trademark Statements of Use

→ An Example of a Trademark Statement of Use

→ Frequently Asked Questions About Statements of Use

Let’s get started!

What Are Trademark Statements of Use?

What is a Statement of Use trademark?

A Statement of Use (SOU) is a filing that demonstrates that a trademark is being used in commerce. Statements of Use are filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and are the way that you tell the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office that you are using your trademark.

The USPTO requires proof that a mark is in use before it will grant a trademark application. A Statement of Use is the way you show the USPTO that you are using your mark.

A Statement of Use is the last step of the trademark application process.

A Statement of Use has several specific requirements. Read about what you need to include in a Statement of Use here.

A trademark Statement of Use (SOU) is an important part of the trademark registration process with the USPTO. It is a sworn declaration that attests to using the trademark commercially in interstate commerce – meaning it has been used in connection with goods or services across state boundaries. A SOU serves as proof to the USPTO that the trademark is now being used on the goods/services specified in its trademark application, and must be filled out properly before they can issue trademark registration certification.

Do I need to file a trademark Statement of Use?

It depends. If the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has sent you a Notice of Allowance, you will need to file a Statement of Use.

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Does every trademark application need a Statement of Use?

No, not every trademark application needs a Statement of Use. If you submit proof of use of your trademark with your new trademark application, for example, you will not need to file a trademark Statement of Use.

If you filed your trademark without proof of use, you must file a Statement of Use to show you are using it. This is required before your trademark can be registered.

What happens if I don’t file a trademark Statement of Use?

If you don’t file a Statement of Use, your trademark application cannot be approved, and your mark will not be registered. Eventually, your trademark will be deemed abandoned, and someone else can apply to register your trademark.

If you are not ready to submit a Statement of Use, it may be possible to request an extension of time. Read more about extensions of time here.

Filing Trademark Statements of Use

Where to file a trademark Statement of Use?

Statements of Use for trademarks are filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in Alexandria, Virginia.

How to file a trademark Statement of Use?

You can file a trademark Statement of Use online or by mail. The fastest way to file a trademark Statement of Use is online using the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS).

If you want to learn more about TEAS, you can read our Guide to TEAS Plus here.

When to file a trademark Statement of Use?

You must file a Statement of Use within six months from the date on your Notice of Allowance. If you are not using your trademark by that deadline, you can request a six-month extension. Read more about extensions of time here.

Who Should File a Statement of Use trademark?

A trademark applicant should file any required Statement of Use within six months after a Notice of Allowance from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

What is the Statement of Use trademark fee?

The fee for a trademark Statement of Use is $100, if the Statement is submitted to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office using its Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS). The fee is $200 is the Statement is submitted on paper. The USPTO publishes a list of all trademark fees on its website here.

Requirements for Statements of Use

What are the requirements for a trademark Statement of Use?

A Statement of Use has three requirements. Every Statement of Use for a trademark must include (1) the required fee(s), (2) at least one example of use, and (3) a sworn confirmation that the mark is being used in commerce.

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) requires a fee for each class of products and services listed in your Notice of Allowance. Similarly, the USPTO requires at least one example of use for each class. So, if your trademark application has been allowed for three classes, then your Statement of Use would require $300 (3 classes x $100/class).

The sworn confirmation must be made by a person with legal authority to bind the trademark owner and must be signed. When a Statement of Use is unsigned or signed by the wrong party, a substitute verification Is required.

Extensions of Time for Trademark Statements of Use

If you aren’t ready to file the SOU, you need to file a Request for Extension of Time to File a Statement of Use within six months of when your Notice of Allowance was issued. The extensions can be filed every six months for up to 36 months.

Trademark Statement of Use Example

A Statement of Use for a trademark application is needed when the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) issues a Notice of Allowance in a trademark application. If you receive a document that looks like the Notice of Allowance example below, you need to file a Statement of Use.

Example of a Notice of Allowance

This is an example of a Statement of Use that was filed in response to the Notice of Allowance above.

Trademark Statement of Use Example

Frequently Asked Questions About Trademark Statements of Use

1. What is a statement of use in trademark?

A Statement of Use (SOU) is a filing submitted to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that confirms that the applied-for mark is actually being used in commerce. Use in commerce is required to register a trademark with the USPTO.

2. How much does it cost to file a statement of use with the USPTO?

The cost for a trademark Statement of Use is $100 per class. A trademark Statement of Use must include a filing fee of $100 per class listed in your Notice of Allowance.

3. What is USPTO statement of use?

A statement of use (SOU) is a filing submitted to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that confirms that your trademark application is now being used in commerce.

4. What to include in a trademark Statement of Use?

You should include the required filing fee, at least one example of how you are using your mark, and a sworn statement that a trademark is in use

5. Do I need to file a statement of use for a trademark?

If you have received a Notice of Allowance from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, you must file a Statement of Use to show you are using it to sell goods and/or services.

Take the Next Step and Legally

Own Your Trademark

Schedule a Free Strategy Call

Michael Kondoudis

Fun Facts: Michael is a member of the Bar of the U.S. Supreme Court and an actual rocket scientist (B.S. Astronomy and Astrophysics, Indiana University 1994).

www.mekiplaw.com

NIKE Trademarks – A COMPLETE GUIDE

December 3, 2022 by Michael Kondoudis

By Michael Kondoudis, Trademark Attorney

This is our COMPLETE guide to Nike’s trademarks.

If you want to learn about Nike’s trademarks, their histories, what products and services they protect, and Nike’s trademarking strategy then this guide is for you.

CONTENTS

> Introduction

> Nike and Its Trademarks

> Nike’s Famous Trademarks

> Nike’s Trademarking Strategy

1. Introduction

Nike is one of the most recognizable brands in the world. The company has been successful for many reasons, but one of the biggest is its masterful marketing and branding. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at Nike’s history as a brand and how it has used trademarks to become one of the most successful companies in the world.

Nike’s Beginnings

Nike was founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight. Bowerman was a running coach at the University of Oregon, and Knight was a former middle-distance runner who had recently graduated from Stanford Business School. The two men started selling running shoes out of the trunk of Knight’s car, and they eventually opened their first retail store in Santa Monica, California.

Iconic Branding

In 1971, the company decided to change its name to Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. The company also debuted its now-famous swoosh logo that same year. Since then, Nike has become known for its innovative marketing campaigns featuring top athletes like Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, and Serena Williams.

Competition in the Athletic Footwear Industry

The athletic footwear industry is highly competitive. In addition to Nike, there are other major players like Adidas, Reebok, Puma, and Under Armour. To stay ahead of the competition, Nike continually innovates both its products and its marketing campaigns. For example, Nike was one of the first companies to sell athletic shoes online and was also an early adopter of digital marketing techniques like influencer marketing.

Nike’s Marketing Advantage

What separates Nike from its competitors? There are several factors that give Nike a competitive advantage in the marketplace. First, Nike has strong brand recognition worldwide. The company also has a long history of innovation that has helped it create groundbreaking products like Air Jordans and Flyknit technology. Additionally, Nike has a vast network of retailers selling its products around the globe. And lastly, Nike’s marketing campaigns are some of the best in the business—they’re creative, inspiring, and often controversial (in a good way).

2. Nike and Its Trademarks

What Is a Nike Trademark?

A Nike trademark is a trademark owned by Nike Inc., a world leader in footwear, apparel, and sports equipment. Nike trademarks represent the Nike brand. Companies like Nike use trademarks to identify their products and to keep their brands distinctive. With trademarks, a company like Nike can stop competitors from marketing competing products using similar names, logos, and slogans.

When did Nike start filing trademark applications?

Nike first began filing trademark applications in 1971. Since then, Nike has filed almost 200 trademark applications.

How many trademarks does Nike have?

Nike currently owns almost 200 registered trademarks.

What does Nike trademark?

Nike trademarks the names, logos, and phrases that it uses to identify its products and to distinguish them from the competition. These trademarks protect Nike’s brand and help consumers find authentic Nike products. Some of Nike’s famous trademarks include:

The company name (NIKE)
Shoe names (AIR JORDAN)
Phrases (JUST DO IT)
Logos (the SWOOSH symbol)

3. Famous Nike Trademarks

Nike owns some of the most famous and valuable trademarks in the world.

The “SWOOSH” Logo

Nike first began using its SWOOSH logo in June of 1971 and trademarked the world-famous logo in 1974. Since then, it has become synonymous with the Nike brand. Nike owns multiple trademark registrations for its SWOOSH logo and these registrations cover a variety of products, including: clothing, footwear, sports equipment, and even virtual goods and stores for the metaverse!

U.S. Trademark No. 977,190 for the SWOOSH Logo

Is the Nike Swoosh trademarked?

Yes, the Nike Swoosh logo is trademarked. Nike trademarked the iconic swoosh logo in 1972 and currently owns several trademark registrations for it.

When was the Nike Swoosh logo trademarked?

Nike filed its first trademark application for the SWOOSH logo in January of 1972. The application was granted by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on January 22, 1974, and it is now registered.

JUST DO IT

Nike first began using the phrase JUST DO IT in 1988 and trademarked this famous phrase in 1995. Since then, it has become synonymous with the Nike brand. Nike owns multiple trademark registrations for its JUST DO IT phrase and these registrations cover a variety of products, including: clothing, footwear, sports equipment, and even virtual goods and stores for the metaverse!

U.S. Trademark No. 1,875,307 for JUST DO IT

Is the phrase JUST DO IT trademarked?

Yes, the phrase JUST DO IT is trademarked. Nike trademarked this distinctive phrase in 1995 and currently owns several trademark registrations for it.

When was JUST DO IT trademarked?

Nike filed its first trademark application for the phrase JUST DO IT in October of 1989. The application was granted by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on January 24, 1995, and it is now registered.

AIR JORDAN

Nike first used its AIR JORDAN name for basketball shoes in 1984 and trademarked this famous brand in 1985. Since then, AIR JORDAN has become closely associated with Nike. Nike owns several trademark registrations for the AIR JORDAN name covering many products, including: clothing, footwear, sports equipment, and even virtual goods and stores for the metaverse!

U.S. Trademark No. 1,370,283 for AIR JORDAN

Is the name AIR JORDAN trademarked?

Yes, the name AIR JORDAN is trademarked. Nike trademarked this iconic product name in 1995 and currently owns several trademark registrations for it.

When was AIR JORDAN trademarked?

Nike filed its first trademark application for the name AIR JORDAN in May of 1985. The application was granted by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on November 12, 1985, and it is now registered.

The “JUMPMAN” Logo

One of Nike’s most famous trademarks is the “Jumpman” logo, a silhouette of former NBA player Michael Jordan. This logo is on every AIR JORDAN sneaker. Nike introduced its Jumpman logo in 1987 and trademarked it in 1989. The sneakers that bear Michael Jordan’s name and image have helped Nike become one of the leading sportswear brands in the world today.

U.S. Trademark No. 1,558,100

NIKELAND

In 2021 Nike began making preparations toward entering the metaverse. As part of those preparations, Nike filed a US trademark application for NIKELAND to protect the name for a variety of virtual products and services, including:

• Virtual goods, namely, computer programs featuring footwear, clothing, headwear, eyewear, bags, sports bags, backpacks, sports equipment, art, toys, and accessories

• Providing an interactive website and computer application software for virtual reality game services

• Entertainment services, namely, providing on-line, non-downloadable virtual footwear, clothing, headwear, eyewear, bags, sports bags, backpacks, sports equipment, art, toys, accessories, digital animated and non-animated designs and characters, avatars, digital overlays, and skins for use in virtual environments; virtual reality and interactive game services provided online from a global computer network and through various wireless networks and electronic devices; entertainment services, namely, providing online non-downloadable game software and online video games; entertainment services, namely, providing virtual environments in which users can interact for recreational, leisure, or entertainment purposes; entertainment services, namely, providing an online environment featuring streaming of entertainment content and live streaming of entertainment events; entertainment services in the nature of organizing, arranging, and hosting virtual performances and social entertainment events

4. Nike’s Trademarking Strategy

Nike is one of the most successful companies in the world because of its rich history as a brand and its masterful marketing campaigns.

Nike carefully cultivated and protected an expansive brand comprising a variety of trademarks. As the company moves its brands into the metaverse, it continues to strategically trademark its brand elements to prevent the competition from using them without permission. As a result, Nike has maintained control over its image, cementing its place as one of the top brands in the world.

Michael Kondoudis

Fun Facts: Michael is a member of the Bar of the U.S. Supreme Court and an actual rocket scientist (B.S. Astronomy and Astrophysics, Indiana University 1994).