[cryptica]

The words 'droid' and `android` existed long before Google existed so Google has no exclusive right to the use of this word.

It seems that corporations don't know what to do anymore so they start suing small players. Clearly, they're desperate because their schemes are about to be exposed.

Mega-corporations are the center of ethical and moral depravity so they should not be in position to sue anyone. They're the ones who should be getting sued.

[MacsHeadroom]

Apples predate civilization, yet Apple does have the exclusive privilege of using the word Apple in relation to computers and almost anything that touches a computer. So that's not a great argument.

Google does not have a trademark on Droid, however. It doesn't actually matter though, because civil litigation is a war of attrition. They don't have to be right. They just have to have deeper pockets.

If you think this is bad or a recent thing, look up Microsoft v. Mike Rowe.

[ChrisMarshallNY]

Apple had to make a deal with Apple Records (the Beatles’ company): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apple_Corps_v_Apple_Computer

[acomjean]

This is actually quite interesting and relevant. Initially Apple could keep the name (after settling) because Computers aren’t involved in music (the Apple // could click the speaker and it took some assembly to make it click and make tones, no sound chip)

Fast forward to iTunes and they’re in the same market.

[skocznymroczny]

In Poland we have some cases going on with Apple. Polish webdomain is .pl, so there are several services such as a.pl and ap.pl which Apple doesn't like.

[salamanderman]

In fact, Lucasfilm has a trademark on Droid and Google/Motorola license it.

[p49k]

Trademark law takes into consideration the similarity of names and Google certainly has a trademark on “Android.” Although you’re correct that Google can use their might to force any outcome, it’s not accurate to imply that Google has no legitimate claim here.

[snoshy]

This sounds to me like a feel good sentiment that lacks careful thought. I agree that "droid" and "android" predate Google and their ilk. It still does not follow that they're suing out of boredom, or that they fear exposure... aren't there bigger brands to protect, like Google itself?

Setting aside who should or not be in a position to sue anyone (I would hope due process guarantees that to everyone equally), why should they be getting sued?

[GrumpyNl]

As long as they can trademark a color, they can do it with a name.