158,792 Trademark Applications Annually, 15% (21,781) from Individuals — AI Trademark Search 'Shohyo Navi' Adds Similar Trademark Risk Assessment Feature

Mycat Inc. (Headquarters: Meguro-ku, Tokyo) is pleased to announce the addition of a new feature to its AI trademark search and application support service, 'Shohyo Navi' (https://shohyo.xyz), which uses AI to assess the risk of similar trademarks before filing.

Background of the New Feature

According to Japan Patent Office statistics, the number of trademark applications in 2024 reached 158,792. Of these, 21,781 were filed by individuals, accounting for approximately 15% of the total (Source: Japan Patent Office 'Annual Report on Patent Administration 2024').

When sole proprietors and startups file for trademarks, it is crucial to verify in advance whether their proposed brand name is similar to existing trademarks. However, searching the Japan Patent Office database (J-PlatPat) requires specialized knowledge, and hiring a patent attorney can cost tens of thousands of yen.

New Feature: AI Similar Trademark Risk Assessment

The newly added feature consists of the following three elements:

1. AI Similarity Scoring: For a trademark candidate entered by the user, the AI references the Japan Patent Office's public database to detect similar existing trademarks and displays a similarity score.

2. Risk Display by Classification: Trademarks are divided into 45 classes (classifications of goods and services), and even if the name is the same, it may be registerable if the classes differ. This feature focuses on analyzing similarity risks based on the classes relevant to the user's business.

3. Pre-filing Check Report: Generates a PDF report listing the presence of similar trademarks, recommended classes, and high-risk existing trademarks, which can be used as reference material when consulting with a patent attorney.

Overview of 'Shohyo Navi'

'Shohyo Navi' (https://shohyo.xyz) is a service that uses AI to support trademark searching, similarity checking, and application preparation. It provides comprehensive support, from explaining basic knowledge about trademarks to assisting with the creation of application documents.

* This service is not a substitute for the professional services of a patent attorney. Please consult a patent attorney for formal application procedures.

■ Company Overview
Company Name: Mycat Inc.
Established: February 5, 2025
Address: 2-7-22 Mita, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
Business Description: Planning, development, and operation of AI-powered services for SMEs and individuals
Corporate Website: https://mycat.business
Contact: info@mycat.love