Trademark

Elon Musk’s xAI filed a trademark application for “Macrohard,” sparking speculation of a rivalry with Microsoft. This follows Musk’s July announcement of a multi-agent AI software company powered by Grok, designed to tackle “macro” and “hard” problems. The name “Macrohard,” seemingly a jab at Microsoft, adds fuel to the existing tension between Musk and Bill Gates, marked by public disagreements on Tesla stock and other criticisms. The trademark suggests Musk is seriously pursuing this venture.

Pantene’s “3 Minute Miracle” shampoo is trending in China due to consumer confusion over whether the name is a trademark or a product claim. Local media revealed the name is primarily a registered trademark, although customer service asserts data supports the “3 minutes to repair three months of accumulated damage” claim. Third-party experiments showed improvement in damaged hair after three minutes. However, product descriptions include a disclaimer that results may vary, sparking debate on branding versus marketing.

Zhang Xuefeng, founder of Fengxue Weilai, shared a birthday post for his 10-year-old daughter, Zhang Nianhan. Nianhan’s name, rich with symbolism, has prompted trademark applications by his firm. Previously, Zhang humorously pledged to deposit company funds in whichever bank employs his daughter, regardless of her exam results. He cautioned others against following his example.

DTTM Operations, representing Donald Trump, has filed trademark applications for telecommunications services, including mobile phones and retail ventures, potentially expanding his business interests. This follows earlier filings signaling a move into the metaverse, suggesting a broader diversification strategy beyond his traditional real estate and hospitality focus. The applications encompass virtual goods, digital token exchange, and virtual training services.

Facing scrutiny over its “Duoban” trademark, instant noodle brand Baixiang swiftly rebranded its products, replacing the term with accurate weight descriptions. This move, costing the company potentially millions, showcases a commitment to transparency and consumer trust. Baixiang’s actions, a stark contrast to industry norms, highlight its dedication to honesty and quality, establishing a new standard within the FMCG sector, rooted in a long-standing promise of safe and reliable products.