Apple to Gatecrash Samsung’s Olympics Party, Sells Special-edition Watch Bands

The sports enthusiasts are currently spending their time watch Rio Olympics either in the Brazil or on their Televisions, so it seems. While the mobile giants like Samsung being an official partner are trying to make sales for it’s special Olympics edition S7 Edge. Last month, the South Korean giant announced that they would have 12,500 of those special edition S7 Edge waiting for visitors flocking to Olympics venues.

Now the reports are coming in that Apple is gatecrashing the Samsung’s expensive Olympics party with their special edition Apple Watch bands. The Cupertino-based company has identified an Apple Store that is situated about 10 Km from the main attraction, the Olympics Park. The store is the sole seller for special-edition Apple watch bands.

Though, do make a note that company isn’t violating any laws as per the former General Counsel of the U.S. Olympics Committee, who arbitrates disputes for firm JAMS. Since, it is an unofficial Games merchandise, which doesn’t feature the iconic Olympics rings logo or in any way uses the word “Olympics”. As those rights are exclusive to the use of sponsors like Samsung.

Rather brand intelligently leverages the straps design on the choice of national colours, which includes United States, Canada and 12 other countries. There is a Brazil-themed nylon band, which is stated to be selling like hot cakes at the Apple Store in Rio. They might not be breaking any laws here as per certain experts, but they does seem to ambush or use guerrilla marketing here.

This came into highlight when Olympics athlete started sharing photos of themselves wearing the national colour themed Apple Watch band. Apple is obviously not permitted to display their special bands alongside Olympics logo. But you can’t stop participant athletes showing off their special edition Apple Watch band alongside the Olympics ring logo. Such is the case when U,S. Sprinter Trayvon Bromell tweeted a photo wearing USA-themed watch band with an Olympics rings tattoo on the same arm.