New England Theater Chain Faces Lawsuit From Tech Giant Apple

There's a battle going on between Apple Cinemas and tech company Apple, which is suing the New England-based theater chain for copyright infringement.

Apple Cinemas

Maine has two Apple Cinema Theaters that are both in the former locations of Cinemagic in Westbrook and Saco. There are an additional 12 theaters, with some in New England, New York, and one in San Francisco, California.

I remember when they took over the Cinemagic location in Westbrook, and I saw the name on the building. My immediate thought was, "Apple isn't going to like that." I guess I was right.

Apple Inc. Lawsuit

According to The Verge, Apple alleged that Apple Cinemas are trying to “capitalize on the highly-regarded Apple brand” in connection with an “aggressive nationwide expansion."

14 locations doesn't seem aggressive to me, but so be it. I don't own any Apple products, so there will be no FaceTiming or Air Dropping to anyone. I'll email you.

Apple Cinemas Hits Back

Apple Cinemas was quoted as saying:

“Apple Cinemas is a long-established independent theater chain with no connection to Apple Inc. Our name reflects our geographic roots and has never been intended to suggest, or used to imply, any affiliation with their brand. Furthermore, claims of consumer confusion are unfounded. Apple Cinema’s branding is clearly differentiated.”

They're not wrong. No one in their right mind is going to see a sign for Apple Cinemas and think they can walk into the building and buy the latest iPhone. No one in their right mind is going to think that Apple Inc. is the same company that runs Apple Cinemas. People aren't dumb. Well...most people aren't dumb.

READ MORE: The 28 Best Movies Set in Maine, Ranked

What do you think? Does Apple have a case, or do you think this is frivolous? Let us know in the comments or on our Facebook page.