Google & Others Sued Over Android Trademark

suraj.sun tips news that Google and 47 other companies are being sued over use of the "Android" name. Eric Specht of Android Data alleges that Google "stole first and asked questions later." According to The Register, "Google applied for a trademark for Android in October of 2007, but had that application denied in February of 2008. The USPTO's reasoning for the denial was simple: Since both Google and Specht were involved in the development of software and related services, 'consumers are likely to conclude that the goods are related and originate from a single source.'" Reader ruphus13 points out related news that Motorola is planning several Android-based phones for later this year.

Comments

Just to make clear what isnt in the summary

[wjh31]

from TFA: "the trademark Android Data hadn't been used for over three years, that the company has been dissolved for over four years"

Re:This is typical stuff.

[mlscdi]

Have you heard about Android Data before google made their move? Thought so.

I'd heard of an Android called Data ...is that the same thing?

Unlikely victory for Eric Specht

[wesw02]

I recently took a college class that discussed various issues of software patents and software trademarks. Based on what I learned in my class it seems really unlikely that "Android Data" will win the lawsuit. Not only does Google have virtually unlimited resources, but the term "Android" is a generic one. It is important to note that when trademarking software a trademark is applied to a type of product. What I mean by that is Ford Motors has a trade mark on the term "Mercury" for their car. However this does not prevent the Rhode Island newspaper from using the name. (Someone please feel free to electorate on what I have said :) )

Re:This is typical stuff.

[Anonymous Coward]

If you don't know what to do after profit, you've got some sort of a problem.