Elon Musk’s platform X is updating its Terms of Service to reaffirm its claim to the “Twitter” trademark following a recent challenge from a Virginia-based startup. This plucky little startup’s attempt first put them on the docket to trademark the word “Twitter,” led largely by attorneys Michael Peroff and Stephen Coates. Coates brings some pretty serious experience to the role, as a former trademark lawyer at Twitter, casting a big shadow over the startup’s young efforts.
X’s updated Terms of Service go into full effect on January 15, 2026. Specifically, they assert that the company has sole rights to the Twitter trademark, the Tweet trademark, and its recognizable bluebird logo. These new terms have the effect of explicitly waiving any rights you may have to use Twitter’s name or its various trademarks. You must have prior written permission from X to do so.
The Boston startup’s trademark application turned some heads over at X. Consequently, they’re even more proactively pursuing and changing the Terms of Service to safeguard their brand identity. This strategic litigation move seeks to safeguard X’s proprietary interests at stake and fortify its position in the fast-paced, cut-throat social media competition.
Michael Peroff, founder of the Virginia-based startup — who practices law in Illinois — is doggedly pursuing this trademark claim. This challenge presents an opportunity that has huge potential benefits for both parties. They’ll have to work their way through trademark legislation and brand ownership within an industry that changes on a penny.
X’s Terms of Service further emphasize the platform’s dedication to protecting its intellectual property. The startup has filed for the “Twitter” trademark itself, which would up the ante drastically. X is responding in a heavy-handed manner to defend its brand attributes.
“Twitter” – part of Operation Bluebird’s claim
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