06/09/2026
™ vs ®: What Is the Difference?
Have you ever noticed the symbols ™ and ® next to a brand name or logo?
They may look similar, but they have an important difference—especially for businesses that want to protect their brand identity.
™ What does it mean?
™ stands for “Trademark.”
It is generally used by a business to indicate that it is claiming a particular name, logo, symbol, slogan or other mark as its trademark.
A business can use ™ even when the mark has not yet been registered as a trademark.
For example:
ABC™
This tells others: “We are using this as our brand/trademark.”
However, simply using ™ does not mean that the trademark has been registered or that the owner automatically has all the rights associated with a registered trademark.
® What does it mean?
® means “Registered Trademark.”
It is used to indicate that the trademark has been officially registered.
For example:
ABC®
Registration can provide stronger and clearer legal protection and can help the owner enforce rights against infringement, subject to the scope and conditions of the registration. India's IP authority notes that registration provides stronger protection than relying only on an unregistered mark. �
IP India +1
The simple difference
™ = We claim this as our trademark.
® = This trademark is registered.
So, a business should not use ® simply because it has applied for trademark registration. The mark must actually be registered before representing it as a registered trademark. Indian law specifically addresses false representation that a trademark is registered under Section 107 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999. �
IP India +1
Why does trademark registration matter?
Your brand name or logo can become one of your most valuable business assets.
A registered trademark can help a business:
🔹 Protect its brand identity
🔹 Deter unauthorised use
🔹 Strengthen its legal position against infringement
🔹 Build consumer confidence and brand recognition
🔹 Create an intellectual-property asset that can potentially be licensed or assigned �
IP India
One more important point
Trademark protection is not automatically worldwide or unlimited.
Registration is connected to the particular trademark and the goods/services covered by the registration. India's trademark system classifies goods and services, and the scope of protection depends on the registration. �
IP India
So, if you have a business name, logo or brand that you are building, it is worth understanding whether trademark registration is appropriate for your business.
Want to know more about Logo & Trademark Protection?
📞 Call: 99494 75048
For details and professional guidance.
Protect your brand today—because your brand is one of your business's valuable assets.
