Operation Bluebird Aims to Revive Twitter Brand Amid Reddit’s New Verification System
In a bold move to reclaim a piece of social media history, a Virginia-based startup named Operation Bluebird has initiated legal proceedings to acquire the Twitter and Tweet trademarks. This action follows Elon Musk’s rebranding of Twitter to X, a decision that has left the original brand seemingly abandoned.
Operation Bluebird, led by Stephen Coates—a former general counsel for Twitter—has filed a petition with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The petition argues that X Corporation has effectively abandoned the Twitter and Tweet trademarks by eradicating them from its products, services, and marketing materials. The startup contends that this abandonment nullifies X Corporation’s claim to these trademarks, opening the door for new ownership.
The startup’s plan involves launching a new social media platform under the domain twitter.new. The website is already live, inviting users to reserve their usernames in anticipation of the platform’s official launch. This initiative aims to resurrect the familiar Twitter brand, offering users a sense of nostalgia and continuity in the ever-evolving social media landscape.
While Operation Bluebird’s legal maneuver is ambitious, it is not without precedent. Trademark law stipulates that if a brand is not actively used, its trademark protections can be forfeited. However, X Corporation may still challenge this move, arguing that despite the rebranding, the original trademarks retain their value and recognition.
In parallel developments, Reddit has begun testing a new verification system to enhance transparency and trust within its community. The platform is introducing gray checkmarks next to usernames of select individuals and businesses, indicating verified profiles. This initiative is part of a limited alpha test aimed at helping users identify authentic accounts, especially in scenarios where verification is crucial, such as official brand announcements or expert-led discussions.
Reddit’s verification process is currently invitation-only, focusing on a curated group of active contributors and trusted partners. The company emphasizes that verification is voluntary and does not grant any special privileges. Businesses that previously displayed an official badge will see it replaced by the new gray checkmark. Unlike other platforms that offer paid verification services, Reddit’s approach is currently free and does not allow users to request verification at this stage.
These developments highlight a dynamic period in the social media industry, with companies reevaluating their branding strategies and verification processes to better serve their user bases. As Operation Bluebird seeks to revive a beloved brand, and Reddit enhances its platform’s credibility, users can anticipate a more transparent and user-centric social media experience.
