What Class 38 covers
Class 38 covers telecommunications services: services that let people communicate with one another and that transmit data, sound and images.
Class 38 is a services class (Classes 35–45 cover services).
Examples of services in Class 38
- Mobile and fixed telephone services
- Internet access services
- Broadcasting: radio and television
- Streaming of audio and video
- Messaging and chat services
- Video conferencing services
- Providing online forums and chat rooms
- Email services
- Satellite transmission
- Providing access to databases
Examples are a guide. Offices accept specific terms; a firm can draft the wording for your products.
What is not in Class 38
| Often confused | Correct class |
|---|---|
| Content production (entertainment) | Class 41 — Education, entertainment & sport |
| Hosting and cloud services | Class 42 — Scientific, technology & software services |
| Telephones and routers | Class 9 — Electronics, computers & software |
| Online advertising | Class 35 — Advertising, business & retail services |
Who files in Class 38
Telecom operators, internet providers, broadcasters, streaming and messaging platforms.
Filing tip
Streaming platforms usually combine Class 38 (transmission), Class 41 (the entertainment content) and Class 9 (the app).
Classes often filed with Class 38
Filing Class 38 in the UAE
The UAE uses the Nice classes. Official fees are AED 6,500 for Class 38 (AED 750 examination, AED 750 publication, AED 5,000 registration). See the UAE fee guide and how to register in the UAE.