Instagram Fights Trademark Implications with ‘RELAGRAM’ Opposition as Social Media Dynamics Shift
Feb/05/2025
On February 3, Instagram filed a trademark opposition against 'RELAGRAM', a trademark for internet-based social networking services that bears a striking resemblance to the established Instagram brand. This filing is not only about protecting intellectual property but also comes at a time when Instagram continues to solidify its role as a leading social media platform. With its massive audience, Instagram’s efforts to defend its name are essential as competitors and imitators attempt to capitalize on its success.
Instagram’s opposition to the 'RELAGRAM' trademark highlights its proactive stance in protecting its brand and reputation. The platform, which boasts over 169 million users in the U.S. alone, has grown to be the third most visited social network in the country. The filing against 'RELAGRAM' isn’t just a defensive tactic; it’s a signal to the market that Instagram is committed to preserving the uniqueness of its social networking services, especially in the face of increasing competition. With a large portion of its user base—28.3 percent—aged between 25 and 34 years, Instagram has positioned itself as a dominant force in the social media space, influencing not only how people communicate but also how businesses engage with consumers. Instagram’s strategic opposition shows that, despite its already established dominance, the company is not resting on its laurels but is continuously working to secure its brand in an ever-evolving industry. The following visualisation shows detailed information about the opposed trademark.
Instagram’s ability to maintain its appeal among diverse age groups—especially younger demographics—has helped it become an indomitable presence in the social media landscape. As of January 2024, Instagram had reached two billion monthly active users globally, with India and the U.S. topping the list. However, Instagram’s future success may depend on its ability to adapt and innovate. As Meta, Instagram’s parent company, prepares to launch its own video editing app—aimed at competing with TikTok’s popular CapCut—Instagram’s focus on features like larger thumbnails and vertical content has allowed it to stay relevant. The increasing popularity of video content is evident, and Meta’s efforts to launch free video-editing tools further highlight the platform’s commitment to staying ahead of emerging trends. This balance between brand protection and innovation is crucial for Instagram’s sustained success in the social media wars. By defending its intellectual property while also improving user experience with new tools, Instagram can continue to solidify its position at the forefront of social networking. Here’s a table showing the trademarks that Instagram opposed in 2024. The names are organized by category and the dates when the oppositions were filed.
