1301.04(h)(iv)(D) Software Applications ("Apps")
Software applications ("apps") for smartphones and computer tablets are now commonly used to provide online services. Apps are simply the interface that enables the providers of the services to reach the users and render the services, and the users to access those services. Common specimens for such apps are usually screenshots of electronic devices showing the apps rendering the services. Such a specimen will not always depict proper service-mark use of the mark in connection with the identified services unless the displayed screenshot clearly and legibly shows the mark associated with the identified services as the services are rendered or performed via the app. Mere depiction of the mark in the screenshot without sufficient depiction of the activity identified in the services does not establish service mark use within the definition of "use in commerce" under Trademark Act Section 45. 15 U.S.C §1127 ("For purposes of this chapter, a mark shall be deemed to be in use in commerce – (2) on services when it is used or displayed in the sale or advertising of services and the services are rendered in commerce[.]") See TMEP §1301.04(i), Example 15 (KURBKARMA).