Trademark issue? Help!

[-Alex-]

Ok so my domain is iappleshare.com and I've been told I may have a trademark issue.

I would want some further input on weather there would be a problem or not. I would like to think that there isn't, because it's only a blog consisting of a number of feeds about apple product help (is there a problem with that?)


Thanks a bunch,

-Alex-

 

[Kate]

The domain indeed contains keyword 'apple' which is TMed for the purpose of computers & software. Any domain that incorporates a TM brand name could be potentially a TM violation.

 

[FedPrimeRate.com]

If you site was about granny smith apples then you'd be OK. But since your content is related to the famous trademarked brand then you are on shaky legal ground.

As always, IMO.

AmCy

 

[MJ]

Unfortunantly iAppleShare is confusingly similar to the apple product. Although it may go un noticed for a while, or forever, it IS confusingly similar to the apple product. It is likely that WIPO will rule in Apple's favor, they could also sue you for damages. Scary rout to take.

 

[DubDubDubDot]

Tons of Apple blogs and news sites with Apple and Mac in their domain.

http://www.appleinsider.com/
http://cultofmac.com/
http://www.macrumors.com/
etc...

So it appears as if the real word answer is that there are instances where they look the other way. But I can't say I am familiar with how aggressively they protect their name in domains or what type of sites they go after.

 

[bmugford]

Apple is a TM for this usage, and yes if they take offense then you could have issues. However, in this situation I think you are fine. As long as you are not trying to profit off their TM it is hard to show "bad faith". The majority of companies are not normally offended by websites supporting their products.

Brad

 

[Kate]

The majority of companies are not normally offended by websites supporting their products.

That's true But they could still come after you anytime so the domain name is like a Damocles sword hanging over your head :gl:

 

[-Alex-]

Ok guys thanks a bunch for the replys, rep awarded.

-Alex-

 

[danBoT]

since "Apple" is a TM and you are using the term "Apple" to compete in a sense with the Apple.com website with news and such as stated "because it's only a blog consisting of a number of feeds about apple product help (is there a problem with that?)" there is a major issue here.

 

[BrianOconor]

I feel if your content is related to the famous trademarked brand then you in a losing position. Why not remove the word "apple" from ur domain?

 

[happydomains]

So based on this thread, msdnblog.com would likely be in a simular position?