Dear Sellers,

We've noticed a concerning trend where sellers are creating listings for products as "generic" when they are actually compatible with or intended for use with branded items. This misclassification often leads to intellectual property violations. Let's clarify how to properly list Generic Products, avoiding Intellectual property policy violations and potential account restrictions.

Understanding the Difference: Generic vs. Compatible

A truly generic product has no branding, distinctive designs, or specific compatibility with branded items. For example, a plain black phone case without any specific shape or cutouts would be considered generic.

However, if your product is designed to work with or fit a specific brand's item, it's not generic, it's a compatible product. These should be listed differently to avoid intellectual property issues.

How a Generic Listing should look like:

Title: "Generic Black Phone Case for 6.1 inch Devices"

Brand: Generic

Description: "A basic black phone case designed to fit various 6.1 inch smartphones. Features standard cutouts for camera, buttons, and ports. Offers basic protection against scratches and minor drops."

Images for Generic Case:

• Plain black case on neutral background.
• Multiple angles of empty case.
• Basic size chart showing dimensions.
• Close-up of standard port cutouts.

This listing is correctly labeled as generic because it:

1. Doesn't mention any specific phone brands.
2. Uses a universal size rather than a specific model.
3. Shows only the product without reference to any branded devices.
4. Has standard features not unique to any particular phone.

Correct Way to List a Compatible Product

Use this format: [Your Product's Brand Name] + [Product Name] + for/compatible with/fits/intended for + [Brand of Main Product] + [Main Product Name]

Let's use an example of a phone case compatible with an iPhone 14:

Title: "YourBrandsName Clear Case Compatible with iPhone 14 6.1 inch"

Brand: YourBrandsName (your brand name)

Description: "This TechProtect clear case is designed to be compatible with iPhone 14 6.1 inch models. It features precise cutouts for easy access to all ports and buttons. Our case offers standard protection against scratches and minor drops while maintaining a slim profile."

Images Done Correctly:

• Empty case against neutral background.
• Measurements and dimensions.
• Your own brand logo. (if registered)
• Basic port alignment photos.

Notice how this listing:

1. Uses your own brand name.
2. Clearly states compatibility without implying official association.
3. Describes the product's features without referencing Apple's designs or patents.

Here's how not to list the same product:

Title: "Generic Clear Case for iPhone 14"

Brand: Generic

Description: "Premium clear case with MagSafe technology. Features the same materials and design as original Apple cases. Perfect fit for your iPhone 14 with exact cutouts for all ports and buttons.

Images Done Incorrectly:

• Shows Apple logo visible.
• Includes MagSafe's icons or graphics.

Why this is an incorrect listing:

• Misuses "Generic" for a product specifically designed for a branded item.
• References Apple's proprietary technology. (MagSafe)
• Compares the product directly to Apple's original cases.
• Implies it's made with the same materials as Apple products.
• The images show branded logos/ trademarks.

Best practices:

• Before listing any unbranded product, make sure you search which brands are protected by trademarks.
• Consider implementing a process to periodically recheck your listing attributes, such as images and texts that could have been updated to become branded over time.
• Always use your own brand name in the "Brand" field or “Generic” when the product is unbranded.
• Use "Compatible with/ for/ compatible with/ fits/ intended for” when referring to branded products.
• Describe your product's features without comparing to or referencing the branded product's specific technologies or designs.
• Avoid using trademarked terms (like MagSafe) unless you're specifically stating compatibility.
• Don't claim your product is "same as" or "identical to" the branded product.
• Do not try to hide any information like logos or trademarks.

Following these guidelines may help you creating listings that aim to represent well your products while being mindful of intellectual property rights and our policy.

Note: Always remember that rules can change, so it's wise to stay updated on the latest policies and look for professional advice when needed.

Please let us know if you have any doubts or concerns about Intellectual properties and if you are struggling with an issue, please create a new post so we can direct our attention to your specific issue.

Best,

-Roxy