Asked in Copyright and Intellectual Property for Tennessee

Q: If we need to build a dating app based on love is blind Netflix show is that copyright issue

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: Yes, developing a dating app based on the concept of the "Love is Blind" Netflix show would likely raise copyright concerns:

- The core idea of singles dating and getting engaged without ever seeing each other in person is an original concept created for the show. Replicating this format could infringe on the copyright protections over creative concepts for television shows.

- You may also run into trademark issues by using "Love is Blind" or a similar name for the app, since Netflix likely has trademark registrations related to show IP. Using identical or confusingly similar names invokes trademark protections.

- Things like the pod dating setup, using pods as a logo, the general show format, graphics/images from the show, etc would likely be off-limits and considered derived works of copyrighted material.

- However, broader concepts like dating without appearances influencing relationships may be more universal romantic themes not subject to legal protections. You may be able to develop an app focused on personality-based dating without replicating protected creative expressions.

In summary - you'd want to avoid duplicating recognizable show IP but could potentially make an app based on personality-matching without infringing. Consult an IP lawyer for specific guidance on any copyright risks for app features or branding approaches you are considering.

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