iOS App Store app copycats during delayed release/beta testing

Question

Created Jan ’18

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I have an app approved by Apple waiting to be released while I collect more advance users through my landing page. I am worried about someone making a copycat app with the exact name and getting approved by Apple. For example, let's say my app is named "Liquid - Dynamic Workout" (the real name is slightly more unique). Could someone release an app before my set release date that is a copycat titled "Liquid Workout"? Additionally, for example, the domain liquidworkout.com is being squatted on, so I had to register liquidworkouts.com.

Basically, if my app is already approved by Apple for app store release, and is on TestFlight, can someone still submit an app with a similar name, similar logo, and the same function? Do the copycat guidelines still apply?

https://developer.apple.com/app-store/review/guidelines/#copycats

P.S. My app is based around a singular, unique function. I've looked through tens, maybe hundreds, of related apps.

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Answer 1

KMT OP

Jan ’18

>I am worried about someone making a copycat app with the exact name and getting approved by Apple.

Exact name (Liquid - Dynamic Workout) is one thing...variants such as Liquid Workout are another. Exact names can't be used in the same country.

Who knows how app review will react to a same-only-different name, which may be only one factor during review.

I woudn't count on every variation of your app you can think of running afoul/being spotted/actionable during review.

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Answer 2

PBK OP

Jan ’18

Apple will allow an app with a slightly different name and similar function. The fight is between you and that “copycat”. Apple will facilitate a communication between them and you but you need to assert either contract or ip law to get them to stop. Do you have a trademark on the name that is damaged by their use of a similar name?; Do you have any patents on inventions necessary for the app to function?; Did they agree to not copy the idea before you included them in TestFlight? If not, your only hope is that they don’t and you can outperform or outmarket them.

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