Andy Rubin’s Essential Smartphone Already Hit With Trademark Infringement Accusations

Android creator Andy Rubin is already in hot water over his Essential Smartphone, despite the fact that the device has yet to ship.

Rubin’s company, Essential Products, has been slapped with a trademark dispute courtesy of Spigen, a mobile accessory maker. Spigen sent Essential Products’ legal representative a letter demanding Rubin’s company “cease and desist from any and all uses of marks including the term Essential.”

Spigen has already trademarked the term “Essential” for a number of accessories it builds, including battery packs, chargers and Bluetooth headphones.

Spigen, according to a report from Android Police, says Rubin’s company had its trademark attempt rejected twice, once for Essential and once for Essential Products. The company’s insistence on moving ahead with its use of the word Essential is what forced the company to take action, Spigen said.

The company, in its letter, said it is concerned Rubin’s use of the word Essential for both his Smartphone and company would cause consumer confusion.

Rubin’s company told Engadget, however, that it believes Spigen’s accusations “are without merit and will respond appropriately.”

Essential Products last week unveiled its Essential Smartphone, a device that will enable its owners to update parts of their phone as technology improves.

Essential, which comes with a $699 pricetag, is currently available in the U.S. only and can be reserved here. Essential Products has not given a shipment date.

Jennifer Cowan is the Managing Editor for SiteProNews.

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