Xin Lang Cai Jing·2026-02-09 17:02Core Viewpoint - Autodesk has filed a lawsuit against Google, accusing the latter of trademark infringement regarding the "Flow" name used for competitive AI software in film, television, and video game production [1][3]. Group 1: Lawsuit Details - The lawsuit was submitted to the U.S. Federal Court in San Francisco, stating that Autodesk has been using "Flow" for visual effects, production management, and related products since September 2022 [1][3]. - Google is alleged to have launched its Flow software for the same customer base in May 2025, which surprised Autodesk [1][3]. - Autodesk claims that Google assured them it would not commercialize Flow but subsequently applied for trademark registration in Tonga, where applications are typically not publicly disclosed [1][3]. Group 2: Allegations Against Google - The lawsuit accuses Google of using the Tonga application to seek similar trademark protection in the U.S. and promoting Flow software at industry events like the Sundance Film Festival [1][3]. - Autodesk's filing states that Google's false promises aimed to buy time to capture Autodesk's market share, potentially suppressing Autodesk's Flow products and trademark [1][3]. Group 3: Company Context - As of last Friday, Autodesk's market capitalization was approximately $51 billion, while Google's parent company Alphabet had a market cap of about $3.9 trillion [1][3]. - Autodesk is seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages for consumer confusion and alleged irreparable harm caused by Google's actions [5]. - Last month, Autodesk announced plans to lay off around 1,000 employees, representing 7% of its workforce, to redirect funds towards cloud and AI business initiatives [5].