Before filing, check availability

As with any trademark, start with a search for prior trademarks. A simple search on TMview or INPI data is a good start to identify obvious risks. In case of doubt, thorough research is strongly recommended.

Once this step is validated, you can focus on choosing which classes to cover. The Nice classification groups goods and services into 45 classes. A relevant trademark registration is based on an appropriate choice, neither too broad nor too restrictive.

Class 9: software

Class 9 covers software as a product. In particular, it includes:

  • Software (registered programs)
  • Game software
  • Mobile applications
  • Software downloadable or recorded on media

This class is mainly aimed at software developed and marketed as proprietary products. It is recommended to specify the object or purpose of the software (e.g.: “HR management software”, “computer security software”) to avoid an overly generic repository.

In the same logic, you can protect variables in mobile applications such as “HR mobile application”, “mobile application in the field of computer security”.

Class 42: software services

Class 42 can be useful if you are developing a programming activity for third parties. In particular, it covers:

  • Software development, design, maintenance and updating.
  • Computer programming
  • IT audit or consulting

For example, you could include “Computer programming for mobile applications”, “Development, design, maintenance and updating of mobile applications”.

You can include variants of each relevant service to accurately cover your business.

Mobile application trademark registration must be personalized

An effective trademark registration should reflect your actual products and services and those you are considering within five years of filing. There is no point in aiming too broad if you cannot justify the use of all products and services. In the event of litigation (nullity or revocation for non-use), you will have to prove the real exploitation of the trademark for the registered products and services.

It is therefore recommended to:

  • Be specific about the nature of the software or services
  • Use standard labels as a base, then adapt them if necessary
  • Predict the reasonable evolution of your business without unnecessarily overburdening the warehouse

Conclusion

Registering a trademark for an application is not limited to checking “mobile application” in class 9. It is necessary to build a strategy covering classes, products and services consistent with your activity, your functionalities and your ancillary services. If you want to register a mobile application trademark under the best conditions, I can help you choose the relevant classes and legally secure your application.

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