Apple has recently “begun reaching out to companies to enforce” its Guidelines for Third Party Promotions, according to Fortune. The current two page document dates back to April 2010, even though contest organizers haven’t exactly followed it.
While the guidelines specifically state that “iPad, iPhone and the iPhone Gift Card may not be used in third-party promotions,” numerous Apple devices are featured in online giveaways. As the demand for the iPad and iPhone has increased in recent years, a growing number of companies and institutions have looked to capitalize by offering promotions promising free devices.
While Apple does allow promotional use of the iPod touch “in special circumstances,” the company will only approve a minimum purchase of 250 units. The document additionally forbids the use of the Myriad Set font “on or in connection with web sites, products, packaging, manuals, or promotional/advertising materials.”
In an effort to prevent the Apple brand from being diluted, the company now prohibits “the use of “free” in any Apple product reference in a headline is prohibited.” Apple also requires that “all marketing materials related to the promotion of Apple products” are submitted to them for review.
While a limiting document is standard practice for many corporations, the news that Apple has begun to more strictly enforce these guidelines appears to indicate the company is tightening up control of their brand.
Honestly, even though Apple is a huge company, I can’t see this having a useful impact. Scammers are out to make money quickly, as soon as Apple spot them, they will disappear and re-appear under a new name. Is it really worth Apple and their lawyers time to shutting down one site, just to see another two pop up soon after?