Google won a dispute for STREET VIEW in Japan

The the Japan Patent Office has ruled in a case related to a trademark application for “STREET VIEW MODEL (SVM)”, written in Japanese Katakana character, for class 41: providing online non-downloadable videos and photographs’:

Against this application an opposition was filed by Google based on an earlier trademark with reputation STREET VIEW for classes 9 and 42.

Although the phrase STREET VIEW is not so unique, the Patent Office concluded that based on the acquired distinctiveness and reputation of the earlier mark, there is a possibility for a consumer confusion. This is enhanced by the fact that both business models concern digital images and videos offered via the Internet.

Source: Masaki MIKAMI, Marks IP Law Firm.

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