Apple launches App Store Twitter feed, perhaps for trademark tussle

There's every chance Apple's decision to launch an App Store Twitter feed, like its Facebook page, is nothing more than an attempt to keep consumers in check with the marketplace.

That's not how most commentators are taking it, however.

Despite the fact Apple already runs five other Twitter accounts to promote various aspects of iTunes, many are taking the App Store feed as a sign of the firm strengthening its grip on the term 'App Store' in view of its trademark claim.

Playing the name claim game

As Apple Insider points out, the feed itself also features links hosted on AppStore.com a domain Apple reportedly picked up recently.

Reaction to Apple's claims on the App Store name has been fairly hostile, especially from long time rival Microsoft, which recently asked the US Patent and Trademark Office to reject the move.

"'App store' is a generic name that Apple should not be permitted to usurp for its exclusive use," Microsoft stated in its request.

"Competitors should be free to use 'app store' to identify their own stores and the services offered in conjunction with those stores."

Developers may well give the firm's Twitter feed a somewhat warmer greeting, however. Though only four tweets strong to date, the account could become a valuable promotional tool, offering apps hand picked by Apple a new method of discovery.

At least, the Twitter description says, "Follow us for official App Store tweets including our featured apps, exclusive offers, and more."

[source: Apple Insider]