Google Accused of Trademark Infringement: Gemini Data Files Lawsuit
Gemini Data, a generative AI company, has filed a lawsuit against Google, alleging that its AI chatbot named "Gemini" infringes on the company's trademark rights. The lawsuit, submitted to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, seeks financial compensation for damages and a permanent injunction against Google’s use of the Gemini name in connection with its products.
According to Gemini Data, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) previously rejected Google's application for the Gemini trademark due to potential confusion with Gemini Data’s existing trademark. Despite this rejection, Google continued to use the name, causing consumer confusion and harming Gemini Data’s reputation.
Gemini Data asserts that it does not seek to monopolize the development of generative AI tools but rightfully holds the federally approved trademark for "Gemini," which was registered in 2021. The complaint alleges that Google's actions were intentional and indicative of a lack of respect for smaller companies like Gemini Data.
As of now, Google has not publicly responded to the lawsuit. Nevertheless, despite facing this legal challenge, Alphabet, Google's parent company, has seen its stock perform robustly this week, rising over 2%.
The outcome of this lawsuit could significantly impact trademark law and how large tech companies manage the intellectual property rights of smaller enterprises.