The operators of the generic domain name, Potentiometers.com, have applied for the matching trademark.
The application at the USPTO cites March 6, 2015 as the date the mark was first used in interstate commerce. The applied for mark is POTENTIOMETERS.COM and for the following products:
On-line wholesale and retail store services featuring electronic resistors and encoders
The domain Potentiometers.com was registered in 1996. It is owned by State Electronics:
State Electronics is a broad line distributor of passive electronic components and computer equipment. Established in 1956, we offer the top franchises in each product category at competitive prices.
Why was POTENTIOMETERS.COM applied for as a trademark at the USPTO?
It’s an ongoing trend among owners of generic domain names, following the decision by SCOTUS on the Booking.com trademark application.
Since then, dozens of generic domain names have been applied to be registered as trademarks, inclusive of the TLD. We keep track of these applications, and so far none has been decided upon.
As of January 5th, 2021, BOOKING.COM is a registered trademark with the USPTO.
Will these applications become the new norm? Watch this video from NamesCon Online 2020.
