What’s the difference between Register and Trademark symbols?

The symbols ® and ™ serve different purposes in the context of trademarks and their legal status:
1. ™ (Trademark): The ™ symbol is used to indicate that a word, phrase, logo, or other mark is being claimed as a trademark by a company or individual. This symbol can be used freely without any formal registration process, signaling to the public that the user considers this mark as their brand identity. It offers some level of protection under common law but does not provide the extensive legal rights that come with federal registration.
2. ® (Registered Trademark): The ® symbol signifies that a trademark has been officially registered with the relevant governmental trademark office. Only trademarks that have undergone the formal application and approval process can use the ® symbol. This registration grants the owner exclusive rights to use the mark in connection with the goods or services specified in the registration and offers stronger legal protections against infringement.
Example:
i) When Nike introduces a new slogan or product name that has not yet been registered, they might use the ™ symbol. For instance, if they launch a new product line called “Nike Swift™,” they would use the ™ symbol to indicate their claim to the trademark.
ii) Microsoft®: The brand name “Microsoft®” is a registered trademark. Microsoft Corporation uses the ® symbol to signify that the brand name, logo, and associated products like “Windows®” and “Office®” have been officially registered and are protected by trademark laws.