If the concept of digital sneakers and apparel is foreign to you, do not worry, Nike plans on introducing to you ( and it will cost you).
According to a report from The Wall Street Journal, the company filed seven patent requests with the U.S. Patent and Trademark office late in October to protest its mark in areas including “dowloadable virtual goods” and related services for retail stores and entertainment, meaning videos games and other online platforms. It appears moving forward those who want those Foamposites or Jordan XIVs in 2K will soon have to shell out additional cash.
The digital items listed in the filings included headwear, eyewear, book bags, bags, and sporting equipments that fall under both the Nike and Jordan Brands , the Swoosh and Jumpman logos and the “Just Do It” slogan.
Josh Gerben a trademark attorney at Gerben Intellectual Property said this :
Virtual worlds are a new frontier,” Gerben told the Journal. “It will probably become a revenue stream for Nike.
Gerben also said to the WSJ that filing for a trademark application is a way for Nike to protect its brand in the virtual world and prevent counterfeit items from appearing in video games.
The filings are on an-intent-to use-basis and they will not be consummated until they are exercised in a mercantile manner.
