NEW MATERIAL:A fluoran derivative of formula I [where R1 and R2 each are H, an alkyl of 1W8C, an alkoxyalkyl, an alkenyl, an (alkyl-substituted) phenyl or an (alkyl-substituted) cycloalkyl; R1 and R2 may form heterocyles with N; R3 is an alkyl of 1W4C; X and Y each are a halogen, an alkyl of 1W4C or an alkoxy of 1W2C].

USE: A color former (a basic dye) used in a pressure-sensitive recording medium, a thermal recording medium, etc. Essentially it is colorless or has a light color. When in contact with a developer it will form a high-density black color.

PREPARATION: It is prepared by the condensation of a 2-(2-hydroxy-4-amino) benzoylbenzoic acid derivative of formula II with a diphenylamine derivative of formula III.