1402.11(a)(xii)    Providing On-line Non-Downloadable Computer Software

Providing on-line non-downloadable software is considered a computer service in Class 42 because it is generally provided for use on a temporary basis. For definiteness and for proper classification in Class 42 as a technological service, identifications for provision of non-downloadable software must (1) indicate the function or purpose of the non-downloadable software and (2) specify the manner of presentation of the non-downloadable software, for example, that it is provided "on-line," is "web-based," and/or that its use is provided on a temporary basis. The identification must also indicate the specific activity provided in connection with non-downloadable on-line or web-based software (e.g., "providing on-line non-downloadable software for computing energy savings"). If the non-downloadable software has a particular field of use or is content-specific, the field of use or content should also be set forth in the identification. However, specifying the field of use or content is not required when the identified non-downloadable software has a clear function and is not field-specific/content-specific. For example, "providing on-line non-downloadable geographic information system (GIS) software" and "providing temporary use of non-downloadable computer software for tracking packages over computer networks, intranets and the internet" are acceptable identifications in Class 42.

Downloadable software and non-downloadable software recorded on computer media are both considered goods and are classified in Class 9. For additional information about identifying software goods, see TMEP §1402.03(d). However, the identification "providing downloadable software" is indefinite and encompasses both goods and services. "Providing downloadable software" is ambiguous because it combines the terms "providing," which suggests a service activity, and "downloadable software," which are Class 9 goods. The identification must accurately indicate the nature of the goods or services, for example, "online retail store services featuring downloadable software" in Class 35 or "downloadable software for {specify the function of software, e.g., managing bank accounts, editing photos, making restaurant reservations, etc. and, if software is content- or field- specific, the content or field of use}" in Class 9.