Sony wants to trademark the term ‘Let’s Play’

We are all pretty familiar with the concept of a Let's Play at this point, YouTubers and streamers use the phrase often to describe their playthrough of a game. However, it looks like Sony is trying to claim the phrase, according to a recent trademark listing at the US Patent and Trademark Office.

The trademark was discovered by users at NeoGAF following a registration application from Sony Computer Entertainment America back in October. The trademark seeks to cover the “electronic transmission and streaming of video games via global and local computer networks; streaming of audio, visual, and audiovisual material via global and local computer networks”.

Sony has not been granted ownership of the phrase as the Trademark Office needs further clarification on Sony's intended use. So far, Sony has not commented on this trademark filing but it would be interesting to hear the company's motivations, particularly since the term ‘Let's Play' is mostly used by content creators.

That said, Sony is likely trying to apply the term to a new PlayStation 4 feature and so far, we have no reason to believe that the company would abuse its ownership of it should it be granted the trademark. Though the fact that it would have the option is a bit worrying.

KitGuru Says: While I personally think it's a bit silly to trademark a popular phrase, I don't think Sony would suddenly start trying to claim videos that list themselves as ‘Let's Plays' or anything like that. Do you guys think Sony should be granted the trademark for Let's Play? 

 

Become a Patron!