• View Comments
• Share with Shortlink:

(AllHipHop News) Rapper T.I. could end up in court again to defend himself against trademark allegations levied against his Akoo Clothing line.

Akoo International bills itself as the world’s largest social music television network.

The company filed a complaint against T.I. and Akoo in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, claiming trademark infringement.According to the lawsuit, Akoo International has held the trademark for “Akoo” for years. The federally registered trademark is sued by Akoo International, which delivers video programming to over 86 million monthly customers, via the Internet, shopping malls and universities in over 30 states.

Akoo International’s technology allows viewers to interact with programming on large screen, networked HDTV’s, using their mobile phones.

“Akoo has been recognized as a leading social TV platform for connecting brand advertisers with millions of our engaged viewers,” said Akoo CEO Niko Drakoulis. “Our primary obligation and goal is to prevent confusion among our consumers, which is among the most basic objectives of trademark law. At the same time, Akoo has invested nearly a decade of effort and substantial capital to deploy its network and will do everything in its power to protect its brand.”Akoo International claims T.I.’s use of the name Akoo has mislead, deceived and confused consumers and potential clients.

The company also took action to defend their Akoo trademark when T.I.’s clothing line ran a controversial billboard advertisement in Newark, NJ, which was condemned by residents, as well as Mayor Cory Booker.