Apple Granted U.S. Trademark for Its Retail Store Design

Apple's retail store design has been granted a trademark from the U.S. government, giving the company some protection from copycat retailers.

The Cupertino, Calif., company's "clear glass storefront" design, complete with "large, rectangular horizontal panels over the top of the glass front," received trademark status last week from the U.S Patent and Trademark office.

The trademark covers the store's interior furniture and fixtures as well, including the floors, lighting and shelves. It also covers the store's "Genius Bar," where customers go for technical support.