How Class 10 Trademarks Safeguard Surgical Tool Brands from Copycats
In a market flooded with innovative gadgets, AI tools, and electronic products, standing out is no longer just about performance—it’s about identity. If you’re launching a new tech device, mobile app, scientific tool, or even wearable tech, one of your most important assets is your brand name. But how do you legally protect your brand in such a competitive space? That’s where Trademark Class 9 comes in.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Class 9 trademarks—from the types of products it covers, to why it’s essential for businesses, to the application process and protection strategies. Whether you’re a startup in electronics or an established AI company, this blog will help ensure your brand is properly safeguarded.
✅ Understanding Trademark Classification: What is Class 9?
The Indian trademark system classifies goods and services into 45 different classes, with Classes 1–34 for goods and 35–45 for services. Each class groups together similar products to make it easier to identify where your brand belongs.
Trademark Class 9 is one of the most comprehensive and widely used classes. It covers electronic devices, scientific apparatus, software, AI tools, computers, and more. Given today’s digital economy, it’s a critical category for tech, electronics, and innovation-based companies.
📦 What Products Are Covered Under Class 9?
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what products fall under Trademark Class 9:
🖥️ Electronics and Computer Hardware
- Computers, laptops, tablets
- Hard drives, USB flash drives
- Monitors, keyboards, mouse
- Routers, modems, computer cables
📱 Mobile and Communication Devices
- Smartphones and mobile phones
- Smartwatches and fitness trackers
- GPS devices, walkie-talkies
- Wearable electronics
💾 Software and AI-Based Applications
- Downloadable software
- AI software tools and chatbots
- Cloud computing software
- Educational or entertainment apps
🎧 Audio-Visual and Multimedia Devices
- Headphones, earphones, speakers
- Audio interfaces, sound cards
- TVs, LCD panels, projectors
- Streaming devices
📷 Photography and Imaging Equipment
- Cameras, camcorders, drones
- Tripods, camera lenses
- Image editing tools
🔬 Scientific and Laboratory Equipment
- Measuring tools
- Laboratory glassware (if electronic or software-based)
- Digital microscopes, voltmeters
🔌 Electrical and Technical Accessories
- Power banks, adapters, chargers
- Batteries and battery cases
- Surge protectors
🔒 Safety and Security Devices
- Fire alarms, smoke detectors
- Security cameras and surveillance systems
- Biometric scanners and card readers
💿 Media and Storage
- CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs
- Software boxes, data cartridges
- Downloadable e-books and multimedia files
⚙️ Industrial Controls and Interfaces
- Control panels, digital meters
- Automation controllers
- Industrial sensors
⚠️ Important Note: Class 9 does not include physical tools, machinery (Class 7), or medical devices (Class 10). Always consult a professional before finalizing your class.
💼 Who Should File Under Class 9?
If your business is in any of the following sectors, you should definitely consider a Class 9 trademark:
- Tech Startups and Software Companies
- Electronics Manufacturers
- App Developers
- AI & ML Product Creators
- Consumer Electronics Brands
- Educational Tech & E-learning Platforms
- Drone & Camera Equipment Retailers
Even if you sell digital content like e-books, mobile games, or software plugins, your IP falls under Class 9.
🔍 How to Conduct a Class 9 Trademark Search
Before applying, it’s essential to ensure that your brand name/logo doesn’t already exist in Class 9. Here’s how:
- Visit the IP India Trademark Search Tool:
https://ipindia.gov.in/tmr.htm - Select “Class 9” from the drop-down.
- Enter your proposed brand name or keyword.
- Analyze existing trademarks to avoid conflicts.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t just check for exact matches—look out for phonetic similarities, logos, and confusingly similar names.
📝 How to Register a Trademark in Class 9: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Trademark Search
Confirm the availability of your brand name under Class 9.
Step 2: Choose the Right Applicant
The applicant could be a company, individual, LLP, or partnership firm.
Step 3: Prepare the Application
You’ll need:
- Brand name/logo
- Description of goods
- Class (Class 9)
- Power of Attorney (if applying via agent)
Step 4: File with IP India
Submit your TM-A form online at ipindia.gov.in
Step 5: Examination by Registry
The examiner may raise objections (Section 9 or Section 11).
Step 6: Publication in TM Journal
If accepted, your mark is published for public opposition for 4 months.
Step 7: Certificate Issued
If no opposition or you win the hearing, your trademark is registered for 10 years.
💸 Trademark Class 9 Fees (2025)
| Type of Applicant | Government Fee (Per Class) | Professional Fee (Approx.) |
| Individual / Startup / MSME | ₹4,500 | ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 |
| Company / Others | ₹9,000 | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 |
You’ll also pay extra if responding to objections or opposition. Renewal after 10 years is also chargeable.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid in Class 9 Registration
- Choosing the Wrong Class
Many confuse Class 9 with Class 7 (machinery) or Class 42 (IT services). - Overlooking Trademark Search
This often leads to rejection or opposition. - Vague Product Description
Be clear and specific in the description of goods. - Logo vs. Word Mark Confusion
Decide if you want to trademark a name, a logo, or both. - Neglecting Legal Advice
Trademark law is technical. Always consult a professional.
🔐 Why Trademarking in Class 9 is Crucial
- ✅ Exclusive Rights over your brand in the tech/electronics space
- ✅ Legal Protection from copycats and infringers
- ✅ Increased Brand Value for investors and consumers
- ✅ Stronger Online Presence with verified branding
- ✅ Global Expansion Ready – helps with Madrid Protocol filings
🌐 International Protection for Class 9
If you’re planning to expand globally:
- Consider applying through the Madrid Protocol.
- India is a member, and Class 9 is internationally recognized.
This helps protect your brand in countries like the USA, EU, UK, Australia, Canada, and more.
📌 Final Thoughts
Trademark Class 9 is one of the most essential categories for modern businesses, especially in today’s digital and tech-focused economy. Whether you’re creating a new software, launching a gadget, or building the next AI tool, your brand is your identity—and protecting it under Class 9 is a smart move.
Registering under the right class ensures that your innovation, goodwill, and brand value are legally secured and future-proof.
🏢 About VMK Professionals
VMK Professionals is India’s trusted legal and business consultancy firm offering end-to-end trademark registration services across all classes, including the ever-evolving Class 9. Whether you’re a tech startup or an established electronics manufacturer, we help you protect your brand with expert-led trademark filing, monitoring, and advisory.
✅ Over 1000+ trademarks filed
✅ PAN India support
✅ Affordable pricing
✅ Free initial consultation
📞 Contact us today to get started with your Class 9 trademark registration.