Anthropic Vs Anthropic: Legal Dispute Over Brand Name In India
  • The two companies which share the name Anthropic have become involved in a legal battle that has reached the courts. One company in the United States operates as an artificial intelligence startup while the other company operates in India under the name Anthropic Software Private Limited.
  • The conflict centers on trademark rights and brand identity. The Indian company claims that the American startup's use of the name is affecting its business operations.

Indian Company Files Trademark Complaint

  • Mohammed Ayaz Mulla is the founder and managing director of Anthropic Software Private Limited, based in Karnataka. The applicant submitted his complaint to the Commercial Division and District Court located in Belagavi.
  • The American AI company operates under the same brand name according to him which violates trademark regulations. The court reviewed the complaint and directed representatives of the American company to appear on February 16. The court issued a second summons for March 9 after the defendants failed to appear on the first scheduled court date.

Background of Anthropic Software Private Limited

  • The founding of Anthropic Software Private Limited occurred in 2017. The company provides services in the IT sector. The company develops digital platforms that include educational materials and connectivity solutions and safety features.
  • The company operates its online platform through the website anthropic.in. Customers who use the brand through its services have established recognition according to Ayaz Mulla. He stated that the company has used the name before the American startup was founded.

Concerns Over Brand Confusion

  • The American AI startup named Anthropic was founded in 2021. The company provides its cloud-based AI tools which have gained recognition in the industry. The company operates its website through anthropic.com while it keeps updating its social media accounts.
  • Ayaz Mulla stated that when customers search for “Anthropic” online, they are directed to the American company’s website. He claims this creates confusion and affects customer access to his company’s services. He also stated that this situation has led to financial losses.

Expansion of the American AI Startup in India

  • The American startup has recently expanded its operations in India. The company established its first office in Bangalore. The technology sector has started to recognize its AI tools which are now becoming more visible.
  • The American AI company has formed a partnership with Infosys. The startup has grown its presence in the Indian market through this collaboration.
  • The legal proceedings will determine how the trademark dispute will be resolved and whether both companies can continue operating under the same name in India.