Supermodel Heidi Klum Enters Legal Showdown Over 'Metaverse Supermodels'

Heidi Klum, renowned as one of the leading supermodels globally, is presently caught up in a trademark dispute involving the term 'Metaverse Supermodels.' According to trademark specialist Josh Gerben , she has put forth a challenge against a company aiming to claim this term, arguing that it's too generic and ought to be open for everyone participating in the metaverse.

Klum's challenge is fueled by her own aspirations within the metaverse. She has sought a trademark for 'Modelverse,' envisioned as a hub for connecting models, designers, photographers, and enthusiasts within the metaverse.

However, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has informed her that she's unable to secure her trademark due to the prior application for 'Metaverse Supermodels.' Klum contends that this situation is unjust, arguing that 'Metaverse Supermodel' serves as a broad descriptor rather than pinpointing a specific producer or service.

In Gerben's perspective, Klum's case has a strong chance of success. Trademark laws exist to safeguard brand integrity and prohibit the registration of general terms. He posits that 'Metaverse Supermodels' is a term that any model in the metaverse ought to freely utilize.

In February 2022, the supermodel  purchased CryptoPunk #3653 sold for 80 ETH, marking Klum's entry into the NFT marketplace and reflecting her expanding engagement in the digital ecosystem.

Klum  trademarked Klum's trademark application for 'Modelverse,' filed in April 2022, illustrates her ambitions within both the metaverse and the NFT sectors. The trademark, shared by lawyer Michael Kondoudis, included provisions for 'downloadable software and mobile applications facilitating an exchange platform for goods verified by non-fungible tokens (NFTs).'

Apart from Klum, other notable supermodels have also jumped into the metaverse, establishing their presence in this virtual frontier. Czech supermodel Eva Herzigová created has created a digital twin in collaboration with Unsigned and Dimension Studios. This digital counterpart, designed as a highly realistic MetaHuman, can be contracted by brands for mixed-reality fashion presentations and promotional endeavors. Herzigová was the pioneer supermodel to embrace this groundbreaking transformation, opening new avenues for the modeling sector.

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