What is the difference between using the ™ and ® symbols?

The ™ and ® symbols are both used in trademark law in New York, but there is a difference between the two. The ™ symbol, also known as the trademark symbol, is used to indicate that a certain word or phrase is being used as a trademark, but it does not indicate that the trademark has been registered. The ® symbol, however, does indicate that a trademark has been registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office and is legally protected. It is important to note that the ™ symbol is commonly used in everyday conversation and on products, but it provides no legal protection or guarantee that the trademark is legitimate. The ® symbol, on the other hand, is a clear indication that the trademark has been officially registered and is legally protected. Sometimes, businesses will use the ™ symbol until the trademark is officially registered with the USPTO, and then switch to the ® symbol once registration is complete. This helps to indicate that the trademark is being taken seriously and is being actively protected. In summary, the difference between the ™ and ® symbols is that the ™ symbol is used to indicate that a certain word or phrase is being used as a trademark, while the ® symbol indicates that the trademark has been officially registered with the USPTO and is legally protected.

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