Apple is suing the owners of theater chain Apple Cinemas for trademark infringement, accusing the brand of tricking consumers into thinking the two companies are linked.
Apple is best known for its computing products, as well as the likes of the iPods, iPhones, and Apple Watches.
But the company has also dipped its toes into movie and television waters, from QuickTime Movie Trailers at the turn of the century to Apple TV+, and movies like Killers of the Flower Moon and F1 being released in theaters.
So, the company hasn’t taken kindly to a theater chain launching and expanding under the name Apple Cinemas.
Apple sues Apple Cinemas for trademark infringement
Apple launched a lawsuit against Apple Cinemas on Friday, August 1, 2025, in federal court in Boston.
According to Reuters, the suit alleges that “the Walpole, Massachusetts-based theater chain will create market confusion and dilute the tech giant’s branding as it carries out plans for ‘aggressive nationwide expansion.'”
The complaint follows the chain’s June announcement that it had signed a lease to take over a San Francisco cinema space previously occupied by AMC Theaters. The lawsuit alleges that Apple Cinemas plans to open 100 more locations over the next decade, as it aims to become “one of the largest theater chains in North America.”
Apple claims the cinema chain used the tech giant’s name to “enter favorable agreements with landlords.” The suit also cites social media posts in which confused consumers question if the two companies are affiliated.
The complaint says Apple Cinemas has ignored cease-and-desist letters, and requests an order blocking them from using the Apple name, as well as an unspecified amount of monetary damages.
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