The American Physical Society has formally protected its brand identity by registering its name as a trademark in the United States, along with the APS Physics and Physics logos. This step, unusual for academic journals, signals a proactive approach to maintaining control over its publications and visual identity. Starting August 1, a change in access procedure will require those with APS member subscriptions to log in using their individual member credentials rather than through their existing APS Journal Account. This ensures secure access for members and streamlines authentication processes; information about registration may be found here.
Access Requirements for Physical Review Applied
A shift in authentication protocols for Physical Review Applied will require a change in login procedures for many of its readers. Beginning August 1, subscribers who are also members of the American Physical Society will be prompted to use their member credentials for access, moving away from the previously utilized APS Journal Account system. Beyond the journal’s title, the APS Physics logo and Physics logo are also registered trademarks of the society, signaling a comprehensive approach to intellectual property. Readers accessing the journal through institutional subscriptions utilizing Shibboleth or OpenAthens will continue to use those established methods; however, the change specifically impacts those with direct APS membership subscriptions. The journal’s access information clarifies that, “Starting August 1, APS member subscribers will need to log in using your member credentials instead of your APS Journal Account,” outlining the forthcoming transition.
The American Physical Society also provides alternative access options, including article purchase and institutional login via username and password, as well as access for students at U.S. public and high schools, demonstrating a commitment to broad dissemination of research. Information regarding registration details is available through a dedicated link on the journal’s website, offering further guidance for those navigating the updated access requirements.
APS Trademarks and Registration Information
The shift to member-specific logins is designed to enhance security and streamline the authentication process for those accessing content through personal subscriptions. Alternative access pathways remain available, including purchase options and institutional logins via Shibboleth or OpenAthens; information regarding registration details can be found on the society’s website. The society’s documentation confirms that “Physical Review Applied is a trademark of the American Physical Society, registered in the United States,” underscoring the scope of this protective measure. This proactive approach to trademarking extends beyond simply protecting the journal title, encompassing key visual elements of the APS brand; the online ISSN is also noted as part of the publication’s identifying information. The American Physical Society provides access options for a wide range of users, including those affiliated with U.S. institutions.
