How to Register a Trademark in Class 9: Step-by-Step Guide for Electronics & Tech Brands
In today’s competitive market, technology brands are thriving—but so are copycats. Whether you’re launching a new mobile app, manufacturing electronics, or selling security systems, protecting your brand identity is critical. That’s where Trademark Class 9 steps in. It’s the classification that covers a wide array of tech-related and electronic goods, and registering your brand under this class is your legal shield against infringement.
If you’re unsure about whether your product falls under Class 9 or why it matters, this guide will explain everything you need to know—from the list of goods covered to registration tips and legal benefits.
What is Trademark Class 9?
Trademark Class 9 is one of the 45 classes defined under the Nice Classification System used worldwide to categorize goods and services for trademark registration. This class specifically covers scientific, technological, and electronic products.
The main idea behind Class 9 is to group together products that involve electronics, software, and instruments. This ensures that businesses in these industries can protect their branding from others using similar names or logos for similar products.
Common Products Covered Under Class 9
Here is a detailed list of products that fall under Trademark Class 9:
1. Electronics & Electrical Devices
- Smartphones and mobile devices
- Televisions, radios, and speakers
- Headphones and earphones
- Computers and laptops
- Chargers and batteries
2. Computer Hardware & Accessories
- USB drives
- Routers and modems
- Hard drives and SSDs
- Computer mice, keyboards, and monitors
3. Software and Applications
- Downloadable mobile apps
- Operating systems
- Video game software
- Security and antivirus software
4. Scientific and Measuring Instruments
- Laboratory equipment
- Thermometers, pressure gauges
- Optical lenses and microscopes
5. Photographic and Cinematic Equipment
- Cameras and camcorders
- Projectors and lighting equipment
- Lenses and camera tripods
6. Safety & Security Equipment
- Fire extinguishers
- Smoke detectors
- Alarm systems
- Biometric scanners
7. Other Items
- Eyeglasses and sunglasses
- Helmets
- Magnets
- Electric doorbells
If your product is digital, electric, or software-based, chances are it falls under Class 9.
Who Should Register Under Trademark Class 9?
This class is essential for businesses in industries such as:
- Technology Startups
- Electronics Manufacturers
- Mobile App Developers
- Security System Providers
- Ed-Tech & E-learning Platforms
- Scientific Research Companies
- Gaming Companies
If you’re dealing with any device or software that involves electricity, optics, coding, or measurement, you need Class 9 protection.
Why Trademark Class 9 Matters for Your Business
Here’s why businesses should not ignore trademark protection under Class 9:
1. Brand Identity Protection
You spend time, money, and creativity on building a name or logo. Registering it under the right class keeps competitors from using something similar.
2. Avoiding Legal Disputes
Without trademark protection, someone else can claim rights over your name, leading to disputes, cease-and-desist notices, or even lawsuits.
3. Customer Trust
A registered trademark shows that your brand is legally recognized, increasing customer confidence in your product’s authenticity.
4. Market Expansion
Trademark registration gives you exclusive rights. When you’re ready to expand or license your brand, it becomes easier to secure deals.
5. Digital Marketplace Listings
E-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart often ask for trademark certificates to verify your brand.
Step-by-Step Process for Registering a Class 9 Trademark in India
Let’s walk through the process:
Step 1: Trademark Search
Before filing, you need to check if your desired name or logo is already registered under Class 9. Use the IP India Trademark Search tool to look up existing marks.
Step 2: Select the Right Class
Choose Class 9 and cross-check the goods you offer to ensure they align with the classification.
Step 3: Prepare Documents
You’ll need:
- Brand logo (if any)
- Brand name
- Nature of goods
- MSME/Udyam certificate (for discounted fees)
- Power of Attorney (if filing via agent)
Step 4: Filing the Application
File Form TM-A online through the IP India portal. You can file as:
- Individual/startup: ₹4,500 (with MSME/Udyam)
- Company: ₹9,000 (without MSME)
Step 5: Examination
An examiner checks for conflicts or objections. If there’s no issue, it proceeds to the journal.
Step 6: Publication in Trademark Journal
Your mark will be published in the journal. If no one opposes it within 4 months, it moves ahead.
Step 7: Registration Certificate
Once approved, you receive a registration certificate valid for 10 years.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Class 9 Trademark Applications
- Using a generic or descriptive name like “Best Electronics”
- Selecting the wrong class
- Not conducting a thorough trademark search
- Spelling or logo inconsistencies in documents
- Ignoring objections or oppositions
These errors can cause delays or outright rejection of your trademark application.
Class 9 vs. Other Related Classes
It’s easy to get confused between Class 9 and other similar classes. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Class | Covers | Example |
| Class 9 | Electronics, software, scientific devices | Smartphones, apps |
| Class 7 | Machines, motors, mechanical tools | Electric generators |
| Class 11 | Lighting and heating appliances | LED lights |
| Class 42 | Software services & development | SaaS platforms, coding services |
Note: You can register under multiple classes if your business covers different categories.
Benefits of a Class 9 Trademark for Tech Brands
- Exclusive Legal Rights
No one else can legally use your brand name/logo for similar products. - Helps in Funding & Licensing
Investors and licensees value brands with trademarks—it adds legal credibility. - International Expansion
It forms the foundation for international registration under the Madrid Protocol. - Better Digital Marketing
It becomes easier to claim brand pages and ads on Google, Meta, and YouTube.
Real-World Example
Let’s say you build a mobile app called “SmartSecure”—a home surveillance application. Someone else launches a similar app named “SmartSecur” with a matching logo. If your brand is registered under Class 9, you can:
- Send a legal notice
- Get their listings removed from app stores
- Sue for damages
Without a trademark, you’re left exposed.
When to File for Class 9 Trademark?
Ideally, before launching your product or going live with your brand. If you’re already using the brand name, file as soon as possible to avoid copycat issues.
Final Checklist Before You Apply
✅ Do a Class 9 trademark search
✅ Confirm that your product list matches Class 9
✅ Prepare logo/brand artwork
✅ Get MSME certificate for discounted fees (if eligible)
✅ File online or hire a professional agent
Conclusion: Secure Your Tech Brand with Class 9 Trademark
With the rise of tech products, software platforms, and smart devices, your brand deserves strong legal protection. Trademark Class 9 isn’t just a category—it’s your brand’s digital armor. Whether you run a tech startup or a gadget brand, registering under Class 9 ensures your identity stays uniquely yours.
🚀 Secure Your Brand with VMK Professionals
At VMK Professionals, we specialize in hassle-free, end-to-end trademark registration services. Our expert team helps you:
- Choose the correct trademark class
- Conduct a full trademark search
- File error-free applications
- Respond to objections or oppositions
- Secure your brand legally across India
We’ve helped startups, tech brands, and app creators protect their identity with 100% compliance and speed. Let us do the same for you.