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Russian Entrepreneur Trademarks
Oleg Teterin has recently obtained a Russian trademark for the winking/smiling emoticon “;-)”. Mr. Tetrin, the President of the cellular phone company Superfone has indicated that the trademark is directed at corporate users, and that individuals will not be pursued for using the mark.
Superfone will allow other companies to use its trademark, but indicates that licenses to do so will cost “tens of thousands of dollars”. Mr. Tetrin also indicates that his company may argue that similar emoticons that resemble the one he has trademarked could also fall under the rights granted by the trademark. There has been no word as to whether Superfone will attempt to register the mark outside of Russia.
For additional information, visit:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2008/dec/12/intellectualproperty-internet