Autodesk sues Google over AI movie-making software

• Autodesk alleges Google promised not to commercialize Flow, then filed a trademark application in Tonga in May 2025 to avoid public disclosure before seeking broader protection
• Despite Autodesk's $51 billion market value, the company warns that Google's $3.9 trillion parent Alphabet could 'overwhelm' its Flow products in the market
• Autodesk is seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages for consumer confusion and irreparable harm, while recently announcing 1,000 job cuts (7% of workforce)

Autodesk Sues Google Over AI "Flow" Trademark Infringement

Autodesk has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Google in San Francisco federal court, alleging Google's AI-enabled movie-making software illegally uses the "Flow" brand name.

Key Details:

Autodesk began using "Flow" in September 2022 for visual effects, production management, and related products serving the film, TV, and video game industries. Google launched competing Flow software in May 2025 targeting the same customer base, despite allegedly assuring Autodesk it would not commercialize the name.

Google strategically filed a trademark application in the Kingdom of Tonga in May 2025—where applications remain non-public—then used this filing to pursue U.S. trademark protection. The company has actively marketed Flow at industry events including the Sundance Film Festival.

Market Context:

The lawsuit highlights the vast size disparity between the companies: Autodesk's market capitalization stands at approximately $51 billion, while Google parent Alphabet is valued at $3.9 trillion. Autodesk claims Google's significantly larger market presence threatens to "overwhelm" its Flow products.

Financial Impact:

Autodesk seeks unspecified compensatory and punitive damages for consumer confusion and alleged irreparable harm. The company recently announced 1,000 job cuts (7% of workforce) as it redirects resources toward cloud platform and AI investments.

Company Response:

Autodesk stated its commitment to "protecting our innovations and ensuring fair competition in the global marketplace." Google has not commented on the lawsuit.

This case underscores growing tensions around AI branding and trademark disputes as tech giants compete in the rapidly expanding AI-powered creative tools market.