The iCloud name

Big rich bullyboy Apple has been sued over its use of the iCloud name, by a small VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) company called iCloud Communications.

Phoenix, Arizona-based outfit is miffed that Apple should have gone ahead and announced its online storage service named iCloud in a blaze of publicity and claims its us of the name will confuse potential clients.

"The goods and services with which Apple intends to use the "iCloud" mark are identical to or closely related to the goods and services that have been offered by iCloud Communications in accordance with the iCloud Marks since its formation in 2005.

"Nevertheless, due to the worldwide media coverage given to and generated by Apple's announcement of its "iCloud" services and the ensuing saturation advertising campaign pursued by Apple, the media and the general public have quickly come to associate the mark "iCloud" with Apple, or rather than iCloud Communications," the firm states in the suit filed in the District Court of Arizona.

"Apple has a long and then known history of knowingly and willfully treading on the trademark rights of others," the fim complains.

The lawsuit seeks an injunction against Apple's use of the iCloud name, as so then as unspecified monetary compensation. Exactly, iCloud.s suit reads: "This action seeks preliminary and permanent injunctive relief, monetary relief, and attorneys’ fees based on Apple’s i) federal unfair competition and false designation of origin in violation of § 43 of the Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1125(a); and ii) Arizona state trademark infringement, unfair competition, and injury to business reputation in violation of Arizona common law."

The iCloud name with the Trade Marks

Apple applied to trademark the iCloud name with the Trade Marks and Designs Registration Office of the European Union, back in May. it as well paid a reported $4.5 million for the iCloud.com domain name from Swedish outfit Xcerion.