Google Sues Over Android Brandname

Google is involved in a lawsuit over the name of the Android OS which the firm is backing as part of the Open Handset Alliance. A company, Android Data Corp. has sued the internet giant claiming that Google's use of the Android name could cause confusion as to which of the two firms is being referred to.

The complaint, filed by Erich Specht of Palatine, Illinois, claims that Google's actions and its business partners "will undoubtedly lead to deception, confusion and mistake among the consuming public,"

The trademark application for the Android name was originally rejected by the USA's trademark body last February, due to the prior trademark held by Specht's company. However, the company Android Data Corp. has not traded for around four years and Google initially appealed the USPTO ruling that its Android trademark should be granted. Specht is now seeking up to US$100 million in damages.

The case is Specht v. Google Inc., 09cv02572, U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois (Chicago).

Posted to the site on 3rd May 2009