Figma’s cease-and-desist letter to Lovable over “Dev Mode” is just the tip of the iceberg. A look at Figma, Inc.’s trademark portfolio reveals a pattern of locking down terms that are, frankly, industry jargon—and it’s raising eyebrows across the developer and design communities.

Figma’s Trademark List

Here are the trademarks Figma has filed or registered, many of which are shockingly generic for anyone working in software or product design (see USPTO report:

  • FIGMA (the company and product name)
  • FORGE
  • SUMMIT
  • CONFIG
  • FIGJAM
  • SCHEMA
  • DEV MODE
  • NOTHING GREAT IS MADE ALONE

The Most Ridiculous Trademarks

Let’s be honest: Some of these make sense for branding (e.g., FIGMA, FIGJAM). But others? They’re so generic it’s almost comical.

  • DEV MODE: This is a universal shorthand for “developer mode,” used in everything from Chrome to Xbox to Jira, and in open-source projects for decades (see The Verge). Figma only trademarked it in 2023, yet now claims exclusive rights and is sending legal threats to startups like Lovable.
  • CONFIG: Configuration (“config”) is a foundational concept in software. Trademarking this is like trying to own “settings” or “preferences.”
  • SCHEMA: Another term deeply embedded in tech, especially in databases and APIs. It’s descriptive, not distinctive.
  • SUMMIT and FORGE: These are common event and tool names across tech, used by everyone from Microsoft to Atlassian.

Why This Matters

Figma’s legal maneuvering isn’t just about protecting its brand—it’s about locking up language the entire industry relies on. The “Dev Mode” trademark, in particular, is so weak that it’s on the Supplemental Register, not the Principal one, meaning it’s recognized as descriptive and not inherently distinctive. This gives Figma little real legal leverage and exposes the trademark to easy cancellation if anyone bothers to challenge it.

Hope for a Fight

Lovable’s refusal to back down is the right move. The tech community needs more companies willing to challenge overreaching trademarks like “Dev Mode.” If Lovable (or anyone else) files for cancellation and brings evidence of prior widespread use, Figma’s claim could easily be struck down.