Violating Trademark by Using QR Code without ®?

jimdhaem Posted on February 8, 2012

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I changed the name of my blog to QR Code ® Artist since “QR Code” is a registered trademark of Denso Wave Incorporated.

See the excellent discussion on the 2D Codes for Global Media group on LinkedIn (join this group) and Denso Wave FAQ page:

Q	Is there a fee for using QR Code?
A	No. The license to the use of the QR Code stipulated by JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) and the ISO are not necessary. The specification for QR Code has been made available for use by any person or organization.(Obtaining QR Code Specification) The word “QR Code” is registered trademark of DENSO WAVE INCORPORATED in the following countries, Japan, United States of America, Australia and Europe. To use the word “ QR Code” in your publications or web site, etc, please indicate a sentence QR Code is registered trademark of DENSO WAVE INCORPORATED. This registered trademark applies only for the word “QR Code”, and not for the QR Code pattern (image).

Q	Is the trademark comment necessary in case using QR Code in business card?
A	No. The trademark comment is not necessary in case using only QR Code image.

Q	Where the trademark comment should be indicated?
A	Anywhere in the media. (e.g)Book/Leaflet – The trademark comment area in the same page as the word ”QR Code” would be the best. If it is difficult, put the comment in separate page or the last page. Poster/Ticket – The trademark comment in anywhere does not effect for the design is acceptable. For web site, please indicate the trademark comment anywhere in your web site.

Q	Is it a obligation to indicate the comment of registered trademark?
A	To avoid confusion, etc, we request to use the word “QR Code” correctly as registered trademark.