Apple Cinemas is facing a trademark infringement lawsuit from Apple Inc., filed August 1, 2025, in federal court in Massachusetts. The tech giant alleges that the theater chain’s name causes consumer confusion and dilutes Apple’s brand, especially given the chain’s rapid expansion, including new locations near Apple’s headquarters and planned sites in California.
Apple Cinemas issued an official response, stating that it has operated independently since 2013 and that its name reflects geographic roots dating back to an intended location at Apple Valley Mall in New England. The cinema chain emphasized that it never intended to suggest any affiliation with Apple Inc. and maintains that its branding is distinct and fully compliant with trademark laws.
The dispute is tied to previous trademark applications. Apple had previously attempted to register “Apple Cinemas” and “Apple Cinemas Experience,” but the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office denied the applications in 2024 due to potential confusion with Apple’s existing trademarks. Apple also claims it sent cease-and-desist letters and contacted property landlords in San Francisco and Danville, but received no cooperation from the cinema chain.
Apple argues that Apple Cinemas is attempting to benefit from the tech giant’s brand recognition as it expands across the U.S., including in markets close to Apple Stores. The lawsuit seeks a court injunction to prevent the cinema chain from using the “Apple” name, along with monetary damages.
This case is reminiscent of Apple’s past trademark battles, particularly the long-running dispute with Apple Corps, the Beatles’ company, which spanned decades and ended with large settlements. Apple’s approach to protecting its intellectual property has been criticized as aggressive, with recent cases highlighting efforts to assert control over the term “Apple” in a wide range of industries.
Apple Cinemas, now among the top 25 U.S. theater chains and partnered with IMAX and ScreenX, says it will defend its name and right to operate. As both companies prepare for a legal showdown, the outcome may set a precedent for how far trademark protections can extend to prevent consumer confusion across different industries.
