Apple lodges Amazon lawsuit over 'app store'

Online retailer criticised for use of the term ‘app store’ – just before it launched it Android app store.

APPLE IS SUING ONLINE RETAILER Amazon over the use of the term ‘app store’ just before Amazon was due to launch its Google Andoid app store.

The Wall Street Journal reports that in a complaint filed on Friday, Apple accused Amazon of trademark infringement and suggested consumers may be confused “as to whether Amazon’s mobile software download service is sponsored or approved by Apple”.

PC World reports that ‘app store’ features on a list of service marks on Apple’s website, which are similar to trademarks but apply to services, not goods.

Amazon spokesperson Mary Osako said the company would not comment on the legal action.

Although Apple and Amazon compete in number of areas, Amazon sells Apple products and Apple has licensed Amazon’s the one click online purchasing technology, Business Insider reports.

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