Just noticed that IK Multimedia has launched Axe I/O: https://www.ikmultimedia.com/products/axeio/
Isn't that a trademark violation?
Isn't that a trademark violation?
And here I thought it was a tool for felling trees, who knew?No, primarily because “Axe” is a common term that’s used to refer to guitars generally.
Ah no, not an infringement, although my Axe-Fx does make my guitar tones smell nice and does attract my wife.if it was then someone else be in trouble...
"Axe-Fx" is hyphenated...one word, followed by the numerical edition designator II, II XL, II XL+, III.
what's it missing? bus power??Looks like the product lacks the one feature which would mark it as a real innovation.
likelihood of confusion
...Courts determine whether TM infringement exist based on a multi-factor test called "likelihood of confusion.". Each US Federal Circuit has slightly different factors, but the main ones are:
1. Are the marks "similar" (not identical" in sound, meaning, appearance, or overall commercial impression?; And
2. Are the goods/services of the parties "related" in purchasers, channels of trade, marketing channels, etc."
Also important is "strength of the mark" and third-party use of similar marks...