Matter Labs sparked controversy by trying to trademark “ZK,” a common term in cryptography for zero knowledge proofs. Known for zkSync, an Ethereum scaling solution, their attempt raised concerns about stifling innovation and limiting access to essential technologies in the crypto community.
The backlash underscored the community’s strong commitment to openness, collaboration, and decentralized principles in advancing technology. It emphasized the importance of maintaining open access to essential cryptographic tools for the benefit of all stakeholders in the ecosystem.
Ethereum Community Responds to “ZK” Trademark Concerns
In response to Matter Labs’ attempt to trademark “ZK,” a vital term in cryptography, Ethereum community leaders like Vitalik Buterin and others have taken decisive steps. They aim to ensure that crucial terms remain freely accessible and safeguarded against monopolistic practices. These efforts have included contributions from influential figures such as Ilia Polosukhin, Hasu, Micah Zoltu, Pat Naji, Stani Kulechov, Lex Node, Haseeb Qureshi, and Pascal Cavarsaccio.
Acknowledging the community’s concerns, Matter Labs has welcomed and appreciated these collaborative efforts. Together, they have proposed a solution that involves creating an ownerless legal entity. This entity would manage trademarks for terms like “ZK,” ensuring they remain accessible to all. The proposal emphasizes granting free licenses to everyone, preventing any single entity from exerting exclusive control. To bolster transparency and trust, the initiative advocates for leadership by a neutral organization or consortium, supported by respected community figures and organizations as guarantors of fairness and inclusivity.
Matter Labs’ Commitments to Openness and Collaboration
Matter Labs, in response to concerns over their trademark application for “ZK” in cryptography, has made several significant pledges. Firstly, they have vowed not to file any new trademark applications for “ZK” and will refrain from appealing any rejections of such applications. They also pledge not to enforce any existing or future “ZK” trademarks they may hold, except for defensive purposes.
Secondly, Matter Labs has committed to financially supporting the establishment of a community-led entity that will hold trademarks for critical cryptographic terms. This support underscores their commitment to a decentralized approach in managing essential terms.
Lastly, Matter Labs plans to transfer all their current “ZK” trademarks to this new entity promptly. This step is aimed at relinquishing control and promoting inclusivity and openness within the community.
Matter Labs encourages involvement from the Ethereum and “ZK” communities to help shape and implement this new model. They invite participation and collaboration through their customer care link, aiming to safeguard critical cryptocurrency terms from monopolization and foster an innovative and cooperative ecosystem.
Important:Â Please note that this article is only meant to provide information and should not be taken as legal, tax, investment, financial, or any other type of advice.
Â
Join Cryptos Headlines Community
Follow Cryptos Headlines on Google News
