Which Medical Devices Fall Under Trademark Class 10? A Complete Guide
As the world becomes increasingly dependent on electronics, software, and digital innovations, protecting intellectual property in these spaces is more important than ever. Whether you’re launching a mobile app, selling smart gadgets, or creating specialized scientific instruments, your brand identity deserves legal protection. Trademark Class 9 is the designated category under which most of these modern technologies fall. But many businesses remain unaware of what exactly this class covers or how it impacts their brand. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Trademark Class 9 and how it applies to your business.
What is Trademark Class 9?
Trademark Class 9 is one of the 45 international trademark classifications defined under the Nice Classification System. Specifically, Class 9 covers:
Scientific, nautical, surveying, photographic, cinematographic, optical, weighing, measuring, signaling, checking (supervision), life-saving, and teaching apparatus and instruments; apparatus and instruments for conducting, switching, transforming, accumulating, regulating or controlling electricity; apparatus for recording, transmission or reproduction of sound or images; magnetic data carriers, recording discs; automatic vending machines and mechanisms for coin-operated apparatus; cash registers, calculating machines, data processing equipment, computers; fire-extinguishing apparatus.
While this sounds technical, it essentially includes products like:
- Mobile phones and accessories
- Computers and software
- Scientific and laboratory equipment
- Smart devices (wearables, IoT products)
- Cameras and photography gear
- Audio and video equipment
- Storage devices (USBs, hard drives)
- Educational technology tools
- Electrical control and measuring devices
Who Should Register Under Class 9?
If your business deals with any of the following, then Class 9 applies to you:
- Tech Startups developing mobile apps, games, or software
- Manufacturers of electronic gadgets and components
- Retailers selling consumer electronics
- Educational Platforms offering e-learning tools or devices
- Healthcare Tech Providers offering diagnostic software or digital equipment
- Developers of AR/VR products
- Security tech companies (CCTV, biometric devices)
For instance, if you’re launching a mobile application and want to prevent others from copying the name or logo, you must register the trademark under Class 9.
Detailed List of Products Included in Trademark Class 9
Here’s a breakdown of the major items covered under this class:
✔️ Electrical & Scientific Apparatus
- Computers, laptops, tablets
- Computer hardware and peripherals
- Fire extinguishing apparatus
- Electricity control devices
✔️ Software & Digital Products
- Downloadable mobile apps
- Operating system software
- AI tools and machine learning platforms
- Downloadable eBooks and PDFs
✔️ Audio-Visual Equipment
- Cameras (digital and analog)
- Video recorders
- Earphones, headphones
- Microphones, projectors
✔️ Communication Devices
- Smartphones, walkie-talkies
- Telecommunication transmitters
- GPS navigation devices
✔️ Data Storage & Carriers
- USB drives, SD cards
- Hard disks
- Cloud-based software interfaces (downloadable)
✔️ Scientific & Measuring Instruments
- Laboratory apparatus
- Microscopes, telescopes
- Voltage testers, multimeters
- Weighing scales
Products Not Included in Class 9
It’s important to avoid confusion and understand what doesn’t fall under Class 9:
- Non-downloadable software or services (Class 42)
- Printed instruction manuals or books (Class 16)
- Medical devices like stethoscopes (Class 10)
- Advertising services (Class 35)
- Electrical installation services (Class 37)
So, if you’re only offering an online streaming service (not downloadable), you may need to look into Class 41 or 42 instead of Class 9.
Benefits of Registering a Trademark Under Class 9
Registering your trademark under Class 9 offers several key advantages:
✅ Legal Ownership
It gives you legal proof that your business owns the name/logo and prevents unauthorized usage.
✅ Brand Protection
Competitors cannot register or operate under similar names in the same class.
✅ Market Recognition
Your brand becomes distinct in the electronics and digital product marketplace.
✅ Asset Value
A registered trademark becomes an intellectual asset, enhancing your business value.
✅ Licensing Opportunities
You can license or franchise your tech brand and legally earn royalties.
Step-by-Step Process to Register a Class 9 Trademark
Here’s how you can register your trademark under Class 9 in India:
Step 1: Trademark Search
Use the official IP India portal or consult a professional to conduct a Class 9 trademark search. Ensure no identical or confusingly similar trademarks already exist.
Step 2: Draft the Application
Include all relevant business information such as name, logo, goods/services, and Class 9 as the classification.
Step 3: Submit the Application
File your trademark online on https://ipindia.gov.in and pay the fees:
- ₹4,500 for individuals/startups
- ₹9,000 for companies/LLPs
Step 4: Examination & Reply
After submission, the registrar examines your application. You may receive an objection which can be resolved by submitting a written reply.
Step 5: Publication in Journal
If accepted, your trademark is published in the Trademark Journal. If no one opposes it within 4 months, it proceeds to registration.
Step 6: Get the Registration Certificate
After clearance, your brand is officially registered, and you’ll receive the registration certificate valid for 10 years.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing for Class 9
- Selecting the Wrong Class
Many businesses confuse downloadable and non-downloadable services. Always double-check with experts. - Inadequate Description
Avoid vague descriptions like “technology products.” Instead, specify: “Downloadable mobile app for online payments.” - Skipping the Search Process
Ignoring the pre-filing trademark search may lead to rejection or legal disputes. - Not Monitoring the Trademark Journal
You might miss objections or oppositions if you don’t regularly check updates post-filing. - Not Renewing on Time
Trademark registration is valid for 10 years and must be renewed before expiry.
How to Monitor and Protect Your Trademark Post-Registration
After registration, your responsibility isn’t over. Here are key steps to protect your trademark:
- Use the ® symbol: This shows your brand is legally registered.
- Watch out for infringement: Keep an eye on the market for copycats or similar names.
- Send legal notices: If someone copies your brand, send cease-and-desist notices.
- Renew every 10 years: Keep track of renewal dates to avoid expiration.
- Register in foreign countries: If you export tech products, consider international filing through the Madrid Protocol.
Real Examples of Class 9 Trademarks
- Apple Inc. – Trademarks for iPhone, iPad, and Apple logos fall under Class 9.
- Sony – Trademarks for PlayStation consoles and accessories.
- Adobe – Software like Photoshop, Illustrator are all protected under Class 9.
- Samsung – Smartphones and electronic devices registered in Class 9.
- Infosys – Their proprietary tech platforms are trademarked under this class.
Final Thoughts
Trademark Class 9 is crucial for today’s businesses that thrive on technology and digital solutions. Whether you’re a startup launching a mobile app, a company manufacturing smart gadgets, or an edtech platform offering digital courses, registering under the right class protects your brand identity and ensures your business stays ahead legally. Don’t overlook this vital step—it can save you from costly disputes and brand dilution down the road.
📌 About VMK Professionals
At VMK Professionals, we specialize in helping businesses across India register and protect their trademarks, including those under Class 9. With expert legal advisors, a smooth application process, and affordable packages, we ensure your digital brand is safe from copycats. Whether you’re a tech startup, software company, or electronics manufacturer, we’ve got your back!
✅ Pan India Services
✅ Experienced Trademark Attorneys
✅ Quick Filing & End-to-End Support
✅ Affordable Pricing for Startups & Enterprises
📞 Contact us today to get started with your Class 9 trademark registration and secure your brand’s future!