Amazon launches Android Appstore, gets sued by Apple

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Amazon and Apple have locked horns over the use of the Appstore name

Amazon Appstore

It seems we can't get enough of apps these days, and Amazon is the latest to jump on the bandwagon with the launch of its own Appstore today, offering downloadable apps for Google's Android system.

But there's a snag: Apple isn't happy, and is suing Amazon in a bid to stop the online retail giant using the Appstore name.

"It will confuse and mislead customers," said Apple spokeswoman Kristin Huguet.

The lawsuit states: "Amazon has begun improperly using Apple's App Store mark in connection with Amazon's mobile software developer program.

"Consumers of mobile software downloads are likely to be confused as to whether Amazon's mobile software download service is sponsored or approved by Apple."

Apple says it has contacted Amazon three time to ask it to stop using the Appstore name. Amazon has declined to comment.

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Andy Clough
Andy Clough

Andy is Global Brand Director of What Hi-Fi? and has been a technology journalist for 30 years. During that time he has covered everything from VHS and Betamax, MiniDisc and DCC to CDi, Laserdisc and 3D TV, and any number of other formats that have come and gone. He loves nothing better than a good old format war. Andy edited several hi-fi and home cinema magazines before relaunching whathifi.com in 2008 and helping turn it into the global success it is today. When not listening to music or watching TV, he spends far too much of his time reading about cars he can't afford to buy.