By Apple Cinemas Trademark Lawsuit – Theater Chain Responds to Apple Inc. Allegations
Apple Cinemas has firmly stated its intention to defend its brand against a trademark lawsuit filed by tech giant Apple Inc. The movie theater chain, which has been in business for over a decade, emphasized that it has operated independently with “no connection” to Apple Inc.
In an official statement released shortly after the lawsuit was filed, Apple Cinemas said:
“We are committed to defending our brand, our history, and our continued right to operate as Apple Cinemas – an identity that is and has always been clearly distinct and fully compliant with all applicable trademark laws.”
The legal dispute stems from a complaint Apple Inc. filed last Friday, accusing the theater chain and its owner, Sand Media, of “knowingly and intentionally” using the Apple name to create consumer confusion during what the tech giant describes as an “aggressive nationwide expansion.” Apple is seeking monetary damages and an injunction to stop Apple Cinemas from using the “Apple” name altogether.
Apple Cinemas Claims Geographic Inspiration Behind Its Name
Apple Cinemas operates 14 locations, primarily in the Northeastern United States. According to the company, its name has geographic roots rather than any attempt to benefit from Apple Inc.’s brand recognition.
The chain explains that the brand identity was inspired by plans for its first location at Apple Valley Mall in New England. Interestingly, the theater never actually opened at that Rhode Island mall, but the name remained part of its branding.
Founded in 2013, Apple Cinemas has grown to become what it describes as a “Top 25 movie theater chain” in the U.S. Earlier in 2025, it opened its first West Coast location in San Francisco, marking a significant expansion beyond its traditional Northeast market.
Disputing Consumer Confusion Claims
Apple Cinemas strongly disputes Apple Inc.’s claim of brand confusion, stating that its branding is clearly distinct from the iPhone maker.
The theater chain also pushed back against Apple’s assertion that negotiation attempts failed, stating it has “responded reasonably and transparently to all legal communications” regarding the matter.
However, legal challenges are not new for Apple Cinemas. In 2024, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) rejected the company’s applications to trademark both “Apple Cinemas” and “Apple Cinemas Experience,” citing a likelihood of confusion with Apple Inc.’s existing trademarks.
Apple Inc.’s Growing Interest in Entertainment
Apple Inc.’s objection to the theater chain’s branding is partly linked to its own entertainment industry presence. Since the launch of Apple TV+ in 2019, Apple has expanded into producing and distributing original films and series, making the entertainment sector a core part of its business strategy.
Given this expansion, Apple Inc. argues that any business using the “Apple” name in entertainment services could mislead consumers into believing there is a connection between the two entities.
What’s Next in the Apple Cinemas Trademark Lawsuit?
The case will now proceed through the legal system, with both companies preparing to present evidence supporting their claims. If Apple Inc. succeeds, Apple Cinemas may be forced to rebrand entirely, which could impact its marketing, signage, and brand recognition built over the past decade.
For now, Apple Cinemas remains committed to fighting the lawsuit and defending its identity. As the legal battle unfolds, it could become a landmark trademark dispute in the intersection of technology and entertainment industries.
