Legal Question in Business Law in California
I want to post product information and specification on my website (for example, cellphone specifications). Do I need to gain permission from the manufacturer and/or carrier?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Generally not. In most cases posting factual information about a product falls under the "fair use" exception to copyright, but not always. Without knowing exactly what you want to post, in what format, and for what purpose(s), it is not possible to say for sure if you need their permission or not.
The design specifications of a piece of electronic gear are not covered by copyright. A cell phone is not a "literary work."
If they are covered by patent, they are already public and it is a moot point. The issue is whether it is a trade secret, and whether you have a written contract with the company not to disclose trade secrets.
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