Trademark is a symbol (an intellectual property) that helps users identify your brand/business. Business owners often use trademarks to identify the goods and services provided by them in the marketplace. There are various categories of trademarks: a word, sound, logo, slogan, design, emblem, shape, letters, etc. Most often, you see the symbols ™ and ® with the brand name. Therefore, it gets crucial to understand the difference between TM (™) and R(®) symbols as it can help choose the right one to market your brand identity. There are no limitations on the placement of the ® symbol once you complete the trademark registration in Indin.
What does the TM (™) symbol mean?
A TM (™) sign denotes an unregistered trademark, which is a symbol often used to advertise or brand products when they have applied for trademark registration. Companies may use the trademark superscript, ™, after text, pictures, or other content they claim as their own but have not been formally registered with a regulatory authority. Occasionally, businesses will use ™ to indicate their first usage or that they have applied for registration. From a business perspective, it suggests that an individual selling a particular product or service believes that its identity is unique.
What does the R (®) symbol mean?
The R (®) symbol on a product indicates that it is a registered trademark. This means that the logo enjoys legal protection as per the Trademarks Act, 1999. Trademark registrations carry a validity of ten years with a possibility for an extension by following the renewal process. If a person or business utilizes the registered name, logo, or symbol without the owner’s prior consent, they may be prosecuted for trademark infringement.
Following are the key differences between TM (™) and R (®)
For a layman, the ® symbol and the ™ symbol are replaceable. But that is not true. Symbols ™ and ® convey distinct meanings.
Usage
- One can use the ® symbol after successful registration of the trademark of the business.
- On the other hand, when the specific product or the service has a trademark pending in registration, it can use the ™ symbol. In such case the ® symbol cannot be used for such occasions as the mark is yet to be approved.
Legalities Involved
- The ™ trademark symbol has no legal advantage or backing.
- The ® mark is legally protected and punishable in case of copied by someone else.
Branding Purpose
- The ™ symbol is usually a preference for the brand identity of the specific company, association, or individual while waiting for the process to conclude.
- Using ® symbol to market your product or service will give you the confidence to use your IP for building solid brand equity.
Conclusion
There is a huge difference between the TM and R symbol. Trademarks can be registered or unregistered, but it is crucial to register them for the great success of the business.
