Figma Takes Action: Cease-and-Desist Letter to Lovable Over ‘Dev Mode’ Sparks Controversy | TechCrunch

Recent news in the tech world has sparked debate over a trademark dispute between Figma and the no-code startup Lovable. Figma, known for its design tool, has issued a cease-and-desist letter to Lovable regarding its use of the term “Dev Mode” for a new product feature. Figma trademarked “Dev Mode” last year, but many in the industry point out that this term is widely used in software development.

“Dev mode” is a term often found across various platforms, from Apple’s iOS to Microsoft’s Xbox. Even companies like Atlassian have used it in their products for years before Figma’s trademark. The crux of the matter is that Figma argues its trademark pertains only to the specific shortcut, not the broader term “developer mode.” Critics liken this to trying to trademark the word "bug," saying it’s inherently generic.

This dispute raises questions about the implications of trademarking common language in tech. If Figma does not defend its trademark, it risks losing exclusive rights to the term. Interestingly, some online voices suggest that Lovable, which recently raised $15 million, could benefit from simply changing its feature name rather than facing a costly legal battle.

The larger context involves the rise of “vibe coding,” a trend where users can generate code through simple prompts. Lovable aims to streamline this process, competing directly with Figma’s design offerings. Even as a startup, Lovable is gaining traction by emphasizing its ease of use, promising less tedious design work.

Figma, valued at around $12.5 billion last year, seems keen to maintain its market share amidst the competition. While a Figma spokesperson noted that they haven’t pursued trademark actions against larger companies in unrelated fields, their move against Lovable signals a proactive stance in protecting their brand.

Co-founder of Lovable, Anton Osika, appears unfazed by Figma’s letter, even responding humorously on social media. This situation has sparked conversations not just about trademarks but about the evolving landscape of design software and the competition between established giants and innovative newcomers.

As technology continues to evolve, discussions like these highlight not just business practices but also the creativity that is reshaping how we approach design and development. Figma’s cautious approach reflects a broader trend in tech where rapid innovation meets the need to protect intellectual property.

For more on trademark law and its implications in technology, check out this comprehensive guide.

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