O No, Lenovo doesn't like the circular power button on Framework 5
 |
| Lenovo doesn't like the circular power button on Framework 5 |
Framework, a start-up that creates modular laptops with upgradeable components, claims it is having legal issues related to the layout of one of its power buttons. In a tweet, the startup alleges that Lenovo's legal department contacted them and complained that one of Framework's designs' circular power buttons is too similar to the stylised "O" that Lenovo uses as the wordmark for its "Legion" brand of gaming laptops.
A screenshot of the legal letter from Lenovo released by Framework states, "Consumers could believe that Framework's Broken O Case or the motherboards they cover are made by, sponsored, supported, licensed, or otherwise linked with Lenovo, when such is not the case."
None of Framework's laptops have the problematic power button design. Instead, the circle may be found in the 3D printer case schematics Framework released in April, which enable users to construct their own little PCs in the Raspberry Pi manner with nothing more than the laptop's motherboard (these can be bought separately, as well as harvested from a Framework laptop). An excellent overview of the 3D-printed enclosure's intended operation may be seen in this YouTube video (the power button gets pressed at the 9:35 minute mark).
In a statement, Lenovo's legal department states that it has just learned that Framework Computer Inc. ("Framework") has published a GitHub repository of 3D printable reference designs allowing users to build motherboard cases for use with Framework's motherboards. The broken O design on these 3D printer guides is confusingly similar to Lenovo's Legion Trademarks.
Despite the fact that I am not a lawyer, I believe I can understand Lenovo's legal team. The power button found on Framework's schematics actually shares three lines with the O in Lenovo's Legion branding, which can be found on the company's website and is printed directly on some of its laptops. These three lines divide the circular design of the power button. On the other hand, it's a circle, one of which is allegedly solely used as a wordmark and the other as a useful piece of hardware. However, lawyers will continue to practice law.
The problem can theoretically be resolved by uploading a new set of CAD files to GitHub since Framework doesn't actually sell anything with the offending power button design on it. Therefore, instead of going up against Lenovo, Framework is hosting a contest where users can submit fresh ideas for its power button. The deadline for entries is August 25. The winner will receive a free i5-1135G7 Mainboard.
Post a Comment