I’m building a desktop app called Conduit Studio and I’m trying to figure out if the name is a bad idea before I get too far into launch.
The app is for filmmakers and screenwriters. It’s meant to be a script-to-screen planning tool: writing, scene planning, production tracking, shot notes, department notes, etc. It’s software, not a design agency or production company. The website is already live, but the product itself is still in development and I’m still making changes before a real launch.
My domain is: conduitstudioapp.com
After picking the name, I found: conduitstudio.com
Frankly, when I was researching this and bought the domain, I just didn't really think about the trademark implications so now I'm worried about it.
They look like a branding/design/digital studio and seem to have been around for a long time. I also found several other “Conduit Studio” type names in use. I’m in the U.S., haven’t filed a trademark, and plan to charge for the app eventually. I’m not connected to the other company and don’t want people thinking I am. It's not a huge deal if I have to change the name/branding at this stage, but it's definitely a setback and a headache.
Main question: would you consider this risky enough to rename now?
A few specific things I’m wondering:
- Is there any risk of actual litigious action here since they're not exactly in the same industry?
- Does “app” in the domain matter much if the app itself is called Conduit Studio?
- If a bunch of similar names already exist, does that make the name weaker, or does it just create more chances for conflict?
- Does it help that my product is software and theirs seems to be branding/design services?
- Does it matter that the website is live, even though the app is still being built?
- If I keep it, would describing it everywhere as film/pre-production software help?
Thank you to anyone who can help with this.