The Big Picture: Trademark Applications Are Skyrocketing
Since the start of 2022, the United States has witnessed an astonishing increase in trademark applications related to cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and the Metaverse. According to data from intellectual property lawyer Mike Kondoudis, the trend has been nothing short of explosive, with over 3,600 applications for cryptocurrencies filed by the end of August 2022. To put things into perspective, that’s already surpassed the total number of filings for the entirety of 2021! Talk about keeping the patent office busy!
NFTs: The Digital Gold Rush
Let’s dive deeper into the NFT bonanza. In 2022 alone, more than 5,800 trademark applications for NFTs and related services made their way to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Consider that back in 2021, we saw only 2,087 applications. It seems like everyone and their grandmas are cashing in on the NFT craze!
Monthly Filing Breakdown
- January: 646
- February: 781
- March: 1,078
- April: 886
- May: 747
- June: 718
- July: 530
- August: 502
As you can see, March was a particular hotspot, with a mammoth 1,078 NFT applications! Meanwhile, July and August took a well-deserved summer vacation with the lowest numbers. Even trademark filers need some sun!
What’s the Deal with Web3 and the Metaverse?
Don’t think NFTs are the only things drawing attention. The excitement extends into the realms of Web3 and the Metaverse as well. Trademark filings more than doubled for these areas, going from 1,866 in 2021 to a nifty 4,150 as of August 2022. Anyone else feeling like we have a digital land grab on our hands?
Big Names Joining the Party
The excitement doesn’t stop with individuals or small businesses. Major brands are also flocking to the USPTO like it’s a Black Friday sale. Luxury brand Hermès made headlines by filing a trademark application for the Metaverse and NFTs, especially after a spat with a certain NFT creator over some Birkin bags, affectionately dubbed “MetaBirkins.” Talk about fighting for your brand’s virtual turf!
The Future is Trademarked?
As companies like Meta, Formula One, Mastercard, McDonald’s, and even the U.S. Space Force secure their digital interests, it’s worth asking: what does this mean for the future? Will we soon be seeing virtual happy meals that you can eat with your augmented reality simulator while sitting on your digital couch? The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion: Navigating the Digital Landscape
In summary, the rush to file trademarks in these futuristic industries isn’t just a temporary trend; it’s likely a sign of things to come. The digital landscape is changing fast, and those who position themselves now may reap benefits in this new virtual economy. It’s a brave new world, folks—welcome to the future of trademarks!
+ There are no comments
Add yours