zkSync Retracts Trademark Bid Amid Ethereum Community Backlash

• zkSync, a major Ethereum layer-2 project, has recently faced backlash and decided to retract its trademark application for the term “ZK.”
• The project initially intended to position “ZK” as a trademark, sparking controversy within the crypto community.
• Prominent voices within the industry, including leaders of Polygon and StarkNet, have expressed strong opposition to zkSync’s trademark application.

zkSync retracts trademark application amid community backlash in the crypto space.

zkSync’s Initial Trademark Attempt

In recent developments, zkSync, a renowned Ethereum layer-2 solution, announced its decision to apply for a trademark for the term “ZK,” intending to utilize it as a branding mechanism. However, the community’s response was overwhelmingly negative, citing concerns about monopolizing a term that signifies zero-knowledge technology, which is widely used across various protocols.

Community Pushback and Industry Reactions

Prominent figures in the crypto world, such as Polygon co-founders Sandeep Nailwal and Brendan Farmer, alongside StarkNet developer StarWare’s CEO Eli Ben-Sanson, and Polyhedra’s co-founder, publicly voiced their opposition. They emphasized that “ZK” represents a collective advancement in blockchain privacy technology and should remain public rather than being privatized.

Matter Labs’ Response and Retraction

Faced with mounting pressure, Matter Labs announced on June 2 that it would withdraw its trademark application for the term “ZK.” The company’s statement highlighted their commitment to keeping ZK technology as a communal asset accessible to all within the blockchain ecosystem. “If a company attempts to trademark this term, it would signify a departure from the community it claims to support,” the statement read.

Implications for zkSync and Layer-2 Solutions

zkSync, being one of the most utilized Ethereum layer-2 networks, continues to hold significant promise, particularly with its upcoming airdrop scheduled for June 13. This event sets to distribute tokens to eligible users, aiming to bolster zkSync’s user base and reward early adopters. The decision to retract the trademark application is seen as a positive move towards fostering a more collaborative and decentralized blockchain environment.

Conclusion

zkSync’s decision to rescind their trademark application for “ZK” underscores the importance of maintaining open and communal development within the blockchain space. This incident highlights the delicate balance between innovation and community acceptance, with zkSync making a prudent decision to support the broader goals of decentralization and collective progress.