When you’re building a tech brand—whether it’s an app, wearable device, AI software, or mobile accessory—protecting your brand identity is as important as the product itself. That’s where Trademark Class 9 comes in. It’s the category that covers a wide range of electronic goods, scientific devices, and software products. Registering your brand under this class gives you exclusive rights and strong legal backing against competitors trying to ride on your reputation.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Trademark Class 9 in India, including what products fall under it, who should register, benefits, examples, costs, steps, and more.
✅ What is Trademark Class 9?
Trademark Class 9 is part of the Nice Classification (NCL) system, which categorizes goods and services into 45 trademark classes. Class 9 specifically includes scientific, technological, and electronic goods, including software and digital products.
It is one of the most commonly used trademark classes in the modern business world due to the rise of startups, apps, and digital product development.
📦 What Products are Covered Under Class 9?
Class 9 includes a wide variety of products. Here’s a list of the most commonly trademarked goods in this class:
- Scientific and research apparatus (microscopes, lab equipment)
- Computer hardware and peripherals (laptops, keyboards, printers)
- Computer software and mobile applications
- Downloadable digital files and e-books
- Eyewear (sunglasses, spectacles, optical frames)
- Smartphones and accessories
- Batteries and chargers
- Cameras, video recorders, and accessories
- Measuring instruments
- Fire extinguishing apparatus
- GPS devices
- Electrical adapters, sockets, plugs
- Magnetic data carriers, USB drives, memory cards
- Protective gear (helmets, protective clothing)
- AI-based products and IoT devices
This broad category makes Class 9 a top choice for startups, electronics companies, app developers, and digital service providers.
👥 Who Should Register Under Class 9?
If your business deals in any of the following, Class 9 is for you:
- Software development companies
- Mobile app developers
- Electronic product brands
- Gadget and accessory manufacturers
- Startups in the IoT and AI space
- Eyewear brands
- Tech product exporters/importers
- Research instrument makers
- E-learning platforms (offering downloadable content)
- Audio-video device sellers
Basically, if your product uses electricity, electronics, digital files, or software, it likely falls under Class 9.
🎯 Why Class 9 Trademark Registration is Important
Here are the main benefits of registering your brand under Class 9:
1. Exclusive Rights
Once registered, only your company can use the trademark for the registered goods under Class 9.
2. Brand Protection
Prevent others from misusing or copying your brand name, logo, or product identity.
3. Customer Trust
A registered trademark builds consumer trust and proves brand authenticity.
4. Legal Enforcement
Trademark registration gives you the power to take legal action against counterfeiters and infringers.
5. Digital Security
For app and software-based businesses, a trademark ensures your product name isn’t cloned in app stores.
📝 Examples of Class 9 Trademarks
- Apple Inc. – “iPhone,” “MacBook” – Computers, phones
- Samsung – “Galaxy” – Smartphones and accessories
- Adobe – “Photoshop” – Software
- Oppo – Smartphones and gadgets
- Google – “Google Lens,” “Android” – Software and digital tools
Even a small mobile app or budget gadget brand can benefit just like the big players.
🔍 Trademark Class 9 vs Other Classes
It’s important to choose the right class or combination of classes. Here’s how Class 9 compares:
| Class | Covers | Used By |
|---|---|---|
| Class 9 | Electronics, software, digital media | Tech brands, startups, app developers |
| Class 38 | Telecommunication services | Internet providers, telecom firms |
| Class 42 | IT services, SaaS, cloud services | IT consulting, web hosting, developers |
| Class 35 | Business and marketing services | Agencies, consultancies |
Often, brands register in Class 9 + Class 42 or Class 9 + Class 35, depending on their product and service offerings.
🛠️ How to Register a Trademark in Class 9: Step-by-Step
Here’s how you can register your brand under Class 9 in India:
Step 1: Trademark Search
Use the IP India Trademark Search Tool to check if your brand name/logo is available.
Step 2: Choose the Right Class
Select Class 9 based on your product type. If you offer services too, consider additional classes like 42 or 35.
Step 3: Draft Your Application
Prepare the necessary details:
- Brand name/logo
- Applicant details
- Product description
- Class details
Step 4: File the Trademark Application
You can file online through the IP India e-filing portal or consult an expert for assistance.
Step 5: Examination and Reply
The Trademark Office will examine your application. If there are objections, you’ll need to respond.
Step 6: Journal Publication
If accepted, the trademark is published in the Trademark Journal for public opposition.
Step 7: Registration Certificate
If no one opposes within 4 months, you’ll receive your registration certificate.
💸 Trademark Class 9 Fees in India (As of 2025)
| Applicant Type | Government Fees (Per Class) |
|---|---|
| Individual / Startup / MSME | ₹4,500 |
| Company / Partnership | ₹9,000 |
Professional fees for trademark consultants or agencies may vary based on services.
🕒 Trademark Registration Timeline
Here’s a typical timeline:
- Trademark Search & Filing – 1–2 days
- Examination Report – 3 to 6 months
- Reply to Objection – 1 month (if needed)
- Journal Publication – 4 months
- Trademark Registration – Total time: 8 to 12 months (if no objections)
Pro Tip: You can start using ™ after filing, and ® after registration.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing the wrong class (e.g., registering under Class 42 instead of Class 9)
- Not conducting a proper trademark search
- Submitting vague product descriptions
- Ignoring opposition notices
- Using a logo/name that’s too similar to existing brands
Avoid these by consulting a professional and doing your homework.
📄 Documents Required for Class 9 Trademark Application
- Logo/Wordmark (if any)
- Identity proof (PAN, Aadhaar, etc.)
- Address proof
- Partnership deed (for firms)
- Certificate of Incorporation (for companies)
- MSME or Startup certificate (if applicable)
- Power of Attorney (if applying through an agent)
🔐 Protecting Your Brand Beyond Class 9
While Class 9 protects your electronic product or software, you may need other classes too:
- For installation or repair services – Class 37
- For online retail or marketing – Class 35
- For IT development services – Class 42
A smart strategy is to register in multiple relevant classes to safeguard your entire business ecosystem.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Class 9 is Essential for Digital Businesses
With digital products and software at the heart of innovation, Trademark Class 9 is one of the most powerful protections a modern business can invest in. Whether you’re launching a new mobile app, selling smart devices, or building AI solutions—getting a Class 9 trademark ensures your brand stands tall and legally safe.
Registering early can prevent unnecessary legal troubles, copycats, and brand dilution. It’s a simple step that pays off in brand recognition, customer trust, and long-term growth.
🏢 About VMK Professionals
At VMK Professionals, we specialize in trademark registration across all classes, including Class 9 for software, electronics, and tech brands. Our expert team offers end-to-end assistance—from conducting searches to responding to objections and securing your registration certificate.
Whether you’re a startup founder launching your first app or a growing business expanding into electronics, VMK Professionals has your back with affordable, reliable, and PAN-India trademark solutions.
📞 Contact us today to protect your Class 9 brand with confidence.
