Microsoft:Metro out,Windows 8-style UI in, amid rumors of a trademark dispute

[Ink]

Microsoft has been using the "Metro" name to describe the new geometric, typography-heavy look-and-feel that is central to Windows 8—and is spreading across the company's entire range of products—ever since it first showed off Windows Phone.

But sources are telling us that this is coming to an abrupt end after the company's Legal and Corporate Affairs team sent out a memo banning the word "Metro." LCA's memo reportedly says that Microsoft has been threatened with legal action for infringing on "Metro" trademarks held by German retailer Metro AG.

Asked for comment, a Microsoft spokesman told us: (...)

Read more on Ars Technica

 

[MrXidus]

While completely ignoring this, I and may others will continue to call it Metro simply because it's what we are used too and it's shorter and easier to say.

Thanks for achieving nothing Metro AG.

Metro MG: "$$$"

 

[malbky]

Lol, now what MS is gonna rename Metro to Tube or Underground? lol. Windows 8 is having a bad start. I am staying with 7 as for now but unable to resist the upgrade offer.

 

[Deleted member 178]

Lol, now what MS is gonna rename Metro to Tube or Underground? lol.

:lolz:

 

[malbky]

For all you know next morning Metro AG may be acquired by MS. Switching away from the name Metro may affect brand sales. They may also have to re write documentations then.

 

[WinAndLinuxTutorials]

Why they only started complaining about it now?! Windows Phone 7 UI was called Metro and so is Windows phone 7.5... strange.

Well done Metro AG for waking up early.

 

[Deleted member 178]

Why they only started complaining about it now?! Windows Phone 7 UI was called Metro and so is Windows phone 7.5... strange.

because of that -> $$$$$$$$$$

1- if too early, MS will change the name before all is set.
2- Metro AG checked with their lawyers when to launch the lawsuit for maximum profit

 

[iScream]

Why they only started complaining about it now?! Windows Phone 7 UI was called Metro and so is Windows phone 7.5... strange.

because of that -> $$$$$$$$$$

1- if too early, MS will change the name before all is set.
2- Metro AG checked with their lawyers when to launch the lawsuit for maximum profit

Sure but why wouldn't you sue Micro$oft for either or all of these reasons:
1. To be able to say that you've done it
2. To get money
3. Since you patented, why not

 

[Syntax]

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