Written by Tomas Orsula
Senior Trademark Attorney
A simple answer to this question is yes; a sound can be trademarked. Essentially, anything that indicates a source of certain goods or services can be protected by a trademark.
However, you should be careful. The sound has to be distinctive and unique to your specific goods and services. Obtaining a sound mark might prove more difficult than a regular word or logo registration.
Many big brands invested in their sound trademarks. HBO is one of the best examples. The static sound playing over a grainy background depicting HBO letters before every HBO movie or TV show is, in fact, trademarked. Another good example is the melody played before every 20th Century Fox Movie.
Is there an extra fee when filing a trademark on the use-in-commerce basis?
What is the price of an additional trademark class in Japan?
Can I file a trademark application if I'm not currently selling any products?
Do I need to prove the usage of my trademark during the validity period?
Is it worth paying someone else to file my trademark for me?
What is the price for 2 or more trademark classes in New Zealand?
What is the price of an additional trademark class in the US?
What is the price of an additional trademark class in the EU?
Do I need to sell my goods/services throughout the entire country to register a trademark?
What are advantages of filing my TM through a lawyer / law firm?
How much does adding a class to my CA trademark application cost?
Our team of experienced trademark attorneys is here to help you! Simply send us an email outlining your request and we'll be happy to assist you.
