Twitter trademark the Tweet™

Over the last few days there has been mounting confusion over the legality of using the word “tweet” as Twitter took action against certain third parties who where using the term in their applications, but it seems now the issue has been clarified via Twitter’s own Biz Stone over on the official blog, and the company don’t have a big an issue with third parties using the term as first thought:

“We have applied to trademark Tweet because it is clearly attached to Twitter from a brand perspective but we have no intention of “going after” the wonderful applications and services that use the word in their name when associated with Twitter. In fact, we encourage the use of the word Tweet. However, if we come across a confusing or damaging project, the recourse to act responsibly to protect both users and our brand is important.”

So it’s pretty straightforward, if you use the term “tweet” in a negative, damaging way Twitter will not be pleased, but beyond that everything is sweet. Just don’t forget, Tweet™.