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Figma Accuses Lovable of Trademark Infringement Over “Dev Mode”
Software giant Figma has reportedly sent a cease-and-desist letter to startup Lovable, asserting that the company’s use of “Dev Mode” infringes on Figma’s trademark. In a statement shared on LinkedIn by Lovable co-founder Anton Osika, Figma expressed being “flattered” that Lovable considers “Dev Mode” an appropriate name for a tool designed to connect design and development workflows. However, Figma stated that “Dev Mode” is extensively associated with their own software and insisted on protecting their intellectual property, demanding Lovable discontinue using “Dev Mode” for its products.
The Core of the Dispute: “Dev Mode” as a Common Term
The term “Dev Mode” is widely understood as shorthand for “developer mode,” a standard access level present in virtually every software platform. Many organizations employ “Dev Mode” and “developer mode” interchangeably. Prominent companies such as Atlassian and Wix have utilized these terms for periods exceeding Figma’s trademark ownership of “Dev Mode.”
Distinct Functionality: Lovable’s and Figma’s “Dev Mode” Features
Notably, Lovable’s “Dev Mode” feature differs significantly from Figma’s offering. Lovable’s tool enables users to preview and modify project code without requiring a connection to GitHub. Conversely, Figma’s “Dev Mode” is engineered to streamline the conversion of design files into code, serving a different purpose within the software development lifecycle. This functional dissimilarity adds another layer to the trademark dispute.
Responses from Lovable and Figma
While Lovable has been contacted for comment regarding their intentions to comply with the cease-and-desist directive, no official response has been issued publicly. In a statement provided to The Verge following inquiry, Figma stated they had “nothing to add beyond what was shared in the letter,” reiterating their stance on the matter. The situation remains unresolved as Lovable reviews its options.