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Trademarks on trial

Microsoft and IBM discover that their ubiquitous brand names don't give them the upper hand in trademark disputes.

CNET News staff
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CNET News staff
Microsoft and IBM are finding that their ubiquitous brand names don't give them the upper hand in trademark disputes. IBM is fighting a challenge to its "e" products, while Microsoft has opted to shell out $5 million rather than face yet another court battle over "Internet Explorer."

Trademark land grab
news analysis The booming high-technology industry is creating a land grab for catchy names in an effort to sell new goods and services.

IBM, start-up both claim "e"
update Big Blue reportedly faces a court battle with a tiny, two-person consulting company over the right to use the "e" trademark.

Microsoft settles trademark case
update Microsoft settles a trademark dispute that had challenged its use of the name "Internet Explorer." Sources say the software giant is paying $5 million for rights to the name.