Autodesk Sues Google Over "Flow" AI Videomaker Name

The lawsuit was filed in a California court last week, according to The Verge, and centers on Google's recently unveiled AI video generator. Autodesk, a major player in 3D design and entertainment industry software, contends that Google's use of the "Flow" name for its AI movie-making tool will create market confusion. The company argues that customers who have long used Autodesk’s own AI-enabled production tools under the same "Flow" branding could be misled.

Autodesk has held the trademark for its Flow design software for over a quarter of a century, establishing a significant presence in the creative software space. As reported by Reuters, the legal complaint suggests that Google’s entry into the video creation arena with an identically named product represents a clear infringement. The concern is that the similarity in name could lead professionals to mistakenly believe the two products are affiliated or come from the same developer.

The case highlights the increasingly crowded and competitive landscape of generative AI tools, where naming and brand identity are becoming critical battlegrounds. With both tech giants and specialized software firms rushing to release AI-powered creative suites, the potential for naming conflicts has dramatically increased. This legal action underscores the value companies place on established brand equity, especially in a field where consumer trust and recognition are paramount.

According to the sources, the lawsuit seeks to prevent Google from using the "Flow" name for its video product. The outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for how trademark law is applied to AI technologies, particularly when new tools from different sectors share common, descriptive names. As noted in the coverage, the filing alleges a likelihood of confusion, a standard benchmark in trademark disputes.

Neither company has publicly commented on the specifics of the litigation beyond the filed complaint. The case now rests with the California court system, where a judge will weigh Autodesk's longstanding trademark against Google's new product launch. The tech industry will be watching closely, as the verdict could influence how other AI products are named and branded in the future.