Before launching a tech product or a software brand, one of the smartest steps you can take is checking whether your desired brand name is already registered under Trademark Class 9. Class 9 covers a wide range of goods, including electronics, software, scientific instruments, and data processing devices. A simple trademark search can save you from expensive legal disputes, rebranding efforts, and rejected applications. But how exactly do you go about it?
In this blog, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to check trademark availability for Class 9, explain why it matters, and how to make sure your application has the highest chance of being accepted.
🔍 What Falls Under Trademark Class 9?
Before doing a trademark search, it’s essential to understand what kind of products and goods come under Class 9. This helps you make sure you’re checking in the right category.
Some examples include:
- Computer Software & Mobile Apps
- Electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and televisions
- Data storage equipment
- Scientific and optical instruments
- Measuring tools, voltmeters, thermometers (not for medical use)
- Fire extinguishing apparatus
- Sunglasses, spectacles, and their cases
- Magnetic data carriers
- USBs, DVDs, CDs, audio-video discs
- Security software and hardware
If your product is even remotely related to digital, scientific, or electronic fields—Class 9 is your go-to category.
🛑 Why Checking Trademark Availability is Crucial
Imagine spending months creating your branding—only to be hit with a legal notice because your name is already registered. That’s exactly what a trademark availability check helps you avoid. Here’s why it’s so important:
- Avoid Infringement Lawsuits: Using a name already registered can get you into legal trouble.
- Prevent Application Rejection: Trademark authorities will reject your application if a similar mark already exists in the same class.
- Save Time & Resources: Rebranding after rejection is time-consuming and costly.
- Secure Brand Identity: A unique, unregistered name lets you own your brand’s identity in the market.
✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Check Trademark Availability for Class 9
Now, let’s break down the exact steps you need to follow to check if your trademark name is available under Class 9:
Step 1: Visit the Official Trademark Search Website
Go to the IP India Public Search portal:
👉 https://ipindiaonline.gov.in/tmrpublicsearch
This is the official website maintained by the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks in India.
Step 2: Select ‘Wordmark’ as Search Type
On the homepage:
- Choose Search Type: Select “Wordmark” (This allows you to search for exact and similar words)
- In the Class field, enter 9
- Input your proposed brand name in the “Wordmark” field
Step 3: Choose ‘Start With’ or ‘Contains’
You’ll see three search filters:
- ‘Start With’: Ideal if you want exact starting matches.
- ‘Contains’: Shows trademarks where your word appears anywhere.
- ‘Match With’: Displays exact matches only.
Start with “Contains” for broader results, then use “Match With” to check if your exact brand name is already taken.
Step 4: Analyze the Search Results
You’ll now see a list of trademarks under Class 9 that either match or are similar to your search term. For each result, check the following:
- Trademark Status: Is it ‘Registered’, ‘Objected’, ‘Withdrawn’, or ‘Abandoned’?
- Proprietor Name: Who owns the trademark?
- Application/Registration Number
- Validity Dates
👉 Tip: Even if a trademark is ‘Abandoned’ or ‘Withdrawn’, it’s wise to consult a legal professional before using the same name.
Step 5: Look for Similar-Sounding Trademarks
Trademark officers may reject your application not only for identical names but also for phonetically similar ones.
For example:
- “ByteTech” vs “ByteTek”
- “iSmart” vs “eSmart”
Use creative variations, but make sure they don’t sound too close to existing Class 9 trademarks.
Step 6: Save or Print Your Results
Keep a screenshot or printout of your search results as a record. This can be useful when consulting a trademark expert or filing your application.
🧠 How to Interpret Trademark Search Results
Even if your desired name isn’t an exact match, you need to assess:
- Are the existing marks in a related industry?
- Could customers get confused between the two brands?
- Is your name unique enough to stand out legally?
If the answer is yes to any of these, it might be wise to tweak your brand name or seek legal guidance.
📌 Common Mistakes to Avoid During a Trademark Search
Here are some frequent mistakes people make when checking trademark availability under Class 9:
- Only checking ‘Match With’ and skipping similar names
- Not using proper spelling or spacing
- Ignoring different suffixes or prefixes (e.g., TechCo, TechCorp)
- Assuming abandoned marks are safe to reuse without legal consultation
- Skipping a professional opinion
Avoiding these errors can increase your chances of a successful registration.
💼 When Should You Hire a Trademark Expert?
While the public search tool is user-friendly, some cases require expert insight—especially for:
- Tech companies with complex branding
- Startups using coined or innovative terms
- Businesses planning to expand internationally
Trademark attorneys can conduct comprehensive clearance searches, including phonetic, visual, and conceptual similarities—something the online portal doesn’t always catch.
📊 What to Do If Your Trademark Name is Taken?
Don’t panic. You still have options:
- Modify the name slightly
- Add a distinctive word or symbol
- Create a coined term
- Use a different trademark class if it fits better
- Negotiate with the existing trademark holder (in rare cases)
Whatever route you choose, make sure it’s legal, unique, and aligns with your branding goals.
🔄 How Often Should You Recheck Availability?
If you’re not applying immediately, recheck availability:
- Every 30–45 days
- Before launching a product
- Before printing packaging or marketing material
Trademark databases are constantly updated with new applications—so stay informed.
📋 Quick Checklist: Class 9 Trademark Availability Search
Here’s a quick reference guide for your trademark availability process:
✅ Know your product type
✅ Identify Class 9 coverage
✅ Visit the official IP India website
✅ Use ‘Wordmark’ search
✅ Start with ‘Contains’ or ‘Match With’
✅ Analyze results for status & similarity
✅ Save search data
✅ Consult an expert if unsure
✅ Recheck before final filing
🚀 Final Thoughts
Trademark availability checks are the foundation of brand protection. Especially for Class 9, where competition is high and products are fast-evolving, doing a proper trademark search can save you time, money, and reputation damage. Taking the extra step before filing gives your brand the space it deserves to grow legally and confidently.
🏢 About VMK Professionals
At VMK Professionals, we specialize in helping businesses like yours secure their brand identity with accurate trademark registration services across all classes—including Class 9. From conducting in-depth availability searches to handling objections and final registration, our team of legal and IP experts ensures a hassle-free experience. Whether you’re a tech startup, software developer, or electronics brand, we’ve got your trademark journey covered—end-to-end.
📞 Get in touch today to protect your Class 9 brand before someone else does.