skills/app-naming/SKILL.md

---
name: app-naming
description: "Use when naming a new Shopify app, evaluating an app name candidate, running a trademark check, optimizing the app name for App Store SEO, or brainstorming brand candidates. Triggers: 'name my shopify app', 'app naming', 'app store SEO', 'trademark check', 'brand my app', 'what should I call my shopify app', 'brand domain', 'shopify app name', 'rename my app', 'is this app name taken', 'trademark Shopify'."
---

# Shopify App Naming & Trademark Strategy

## Frontmatter Triggers
When users ask:
- "What should I name my Shopify app?"
- "Is [name] a good app name?"
- "How do I check if my app name is trademarked?"
- "What naming patterns work for Shopify apps?"
- "Should I trademark my app name?"
- "Help me generate app name ideas"
- "Will Shopify reject my app name?"

Then execute this skill.

---

## When to Use This Skill

**Use this skill when:**
- You've chosen a niche/problem to solve but need a name
- You want to validate naming choices before building
- You're unsure if your name will pass Shopify's review
- You're torn between multiple name options
- You want to ensure trademark safety before launch

**Don't use this skill for:**
- Naming internal projects (not going to Shopify App Store)
- Personal website names (different rules apply)
- Broader brand positioning (see Marketing skill instead)

---

## The Naming Minefield: What Shopify Will Reject

### Hard Rejects (Automatic Rejection)

Shopify **will reject** your app if the name contains:

1. **"Shop" or "Shopify"** (Shopify's protected trademark)
   - ❌ "ShopPrinter" (Rejected)
   - ❌ "Shopify Bundle Builder" (Rejected)
   - ✅ "Bundle Blitz" (Approved)

2. **Brand names without permission** (Stripe, PayPal, Twilio, etc.)
   - ❌ "Stripe Invoicer" (Rejected)
   - ❌ "PayPal Direct Sync" (Rejected)
   - ✅ "Invoice Pro" (Approved)

3. **Generic/overused terms** that confuse identity
   - ❌ "Store Manager" (too generic, high competition)
   - ❌ "Sales Tool" (meaningless)
   - ✅ "Profit Dashboard" (specific problem, brandable)

4. **Acronyms that are registered trademarks**
   - ❌ "CRM Pro" (CRM is trademarked in some contexts)
   - ❌ "API Dashboard" (API is too generic)
   - ✅ "Pipeline Manager" (clear, branded)

5. **Offensive, vulgar, or discriminatory language**
   - ❌ Any slurs or explicit content
   - ✅ Professional language only

### Soft Rejects (Likely Rejection)

Shopify **will likely reject** if the name:

- **Sounds too similar to existing apps** (Judge.me vs Judge Pro vs Judge.ai)
  - Research: Search "Shopify app [your proposed name]" before committing

- **Is hard to spell or pronounce**
  - Merchants won't search for it
  - You'll get 50% fewer organic installs
  - Example: "Zycphlax" vs "Smart Bundle"

- **Has zero brand personality** (feels like generic software)
  - ❌ "App Tool" (no personality)
  - ✅ "Printful" (memorable, branded, implies speed)

- **Implies features you don't have**
  - ❌ "Smart AI Optimizer" (if you have zero AI)
  - ✅ "Bundle Builder" (honest about what you do)

---

## The Naming Formula That Works

### Core Formula: [Action Verb] + [Problem Area] + [Differentiator]

**Anatomy breakdown:**

| Component | Purpose | Examples |
|-----------|---------|----------|
| **Action Verb** | Shows what the app DOES | Recover, Loop, Seal, Print, Collect, Automate, Boost, Convert |
| **Problem Area** | What problem it solves | Returns, Subscriptions, Bundles, Referrals, Support, Analytics |
| **Differentiator** | Why it's better/different | AI-first, Fast, Smart, Pro, Ultimate, Direct, Real-time |

### Real App Analysis Using the Formula

| App Name | Formula Breakdown | Why It Works |
|----------|-------------------|-------------|
| **Printful** | Print (action) + Fulfillment (problem) + Full (completeness) | Implies speed, handles everything, memorable |
| **Gorgias** | Handle (implied) + Support (problem) + AI-First (diff) | Suggests quick response, modern approach |
| **ReConvert** | Recover (action) + Purchase (problem) + Conversion (diff) | Direct outcome messaging, shows ROI |
| **Bold** | Build/Enable (action) + Checkout (problem) + Customization (diff) | Short, actionable, clear niche |
| **Rejoiner** | Rejoin/Recover (action) + Abandonment (problem) + Customer (diff) | Specific problem, memorable verb |
| **Loop Returns** | Loop (action/metaphor) + Returns (problem) + Circular (diff) | Implies repeat/circular process, visual |
| **Seal Subscriptions** | Seal (action) + Subscriptions (problem) + Security (diff) | Trust-oriented, problem-specific |
| **Kustomer** | Custom (action) + Customer (problem) + Service (diff) | Creative spelling, memorable, problem-focused |
| **Profit Dashboard** | Show (implied) + Profit (problem) + Real-time (diff) | Outcome-focused, clear intent, merchant-focused |

### Name Generation Framework (30+ Ideas in 5 Minutes)

**Step 1: List 5 Action Verbs for Your Problem**
- Problem: "Returns management"
- Verbs: Return, Recover, Restore, Revive, Resolve

**Step 2: List 5 Ways to Describe the Problem**
- Problem descriptions: "Returns," "Reverse Logistics," "RMA," "Refunds," "Returns Operations"

**Step 3: List 5 Differentiators (Why You're Different)**
- Differentiators: "Smart," "Fast," "Automated," "Direct," "Pro"

**Step 4: Mix & Match (5 × 5 × 5 = 125 combinations)**
- Return + Logistics + Smart = "Smart Reverse"
- Recover + Returns + Automated = "AutoRecover"
- Restore + Operations + Direct = "Direct Restore"

**Step 5: Filter for Memorability & Availability**
- Can you say it out loud 10 times without messing up? ✅
- Does it have a clear verb + noun? ✅
- Is it 2-3 words max? ✅
- Is the .com available? ✅

---

## 30 Example App Names Analyzed by Category

### Returns & Reverse Logistics
| Name | Pattern | Strength |
|------|---------|----------|
| Loop Returns | Verb (Loop) + Noun (Returns) | Visual metaphor, memorable |
| AutoRestore | Prefix (Auto) + Verb (Restore) | Clear automation benefit |
| Recover RMA | Verb (Recover) + Term (RMA) | Problem-specific, technical |
| Reverse Flow | Verb + Direction | Implies easy setup |
| ReturnIQ | Verb (Return) + Suffix (IQ) | Smart/intelligent positioning |

### Bundle & Upsell
| Name | Pattern | Strength |
|------|---------|----------|
| Bundle Blitz | Noun + Speed metaphor | Fast, memorable, energetic |
| Bundlefy | Bundle + Suffix (fy) | Similar to Shopify, familiar pattern |
| Combo Stack | Noun + Structure metaphor | Visual, implies layering |
| BundleBoost | Bundle + Verb | Shows results/lift |
| Kits Pro | Noun + Tier (Pro) | Simple, clear positioning |

### Subscription Management
| Name | Pattern | Strength |
|------|---------|----------|
| Seal Subscriptions | Verb (Seal) + Noun | Security/stability implied |
| PauseFlow | Key feature + Flow | Solves specific pain (pause requests) |
| Sub Smart | Noun (Sub) + Adjective (Smart) | Tech-forward, specific |
| Flex Billing | Adjective + Core feature | Emphasizes flexibility |
| Renew Pro | Verb + Tier | Outcome-focused |

### Post-Purchase & Upsell
| Name | Pattern | Strength |
|------|---------|----------|
| ReConvert | Re + Action (Convert) | Direct ROI messaging |
| Thank You Boost | Feature + Benefit | Specific, outcome-focused |
| OrderFlow | Process noun + Flow | Smooth, integrated feel |
| CTA Pro | Feature + Tier | Action-oriented |
| Capture Upsell | Action + Feature | Two benefits in one |

### Inventory & Fulfillment
| Name | Pattern | Strength |
|------|---------|----------|
| Printful | Action (Print) + Adjective (Full) | Complete solution feel |
| Stock Smart | Process noun + Adjective | Intelligent positioning |
| Inventory IQ | Noun + Intelligence suffix | Smart/advanced feel |
| Sync Now | Verb + Time commitment | Speed/real-time messaging |
| FulfillPro | Verb + Tier | Professional solution |

### Customer Support
| Name | Pattern | Strength |
|------|---------|----------|
| Gorgias | Brand name (Gorge + AI) | Unique, memorable, implies AI |
| SupportStack | Feature + Structure | Multiple channels stacked |
| Respond Quick | Verb + Benefit | Speed-focused |
| HelpDesk Pro | Feature + Tier | Clear, professional |
| Chat Stream | Feature + Flow | Real-time, continuous |

### Analytics & Reporting
| Name | Pattern | Strength |
|------|---------|----------|
| Profit Dashboard | Outcome + Feature | Merchant goal-focused |
| DataFlow | Noun + Flow | Clean, data-centric |
| MetricsIQ | Feature + Intelligence | Smart positioning |
| Report Pro | Feature + Tier | Professional analytics |
| Insights Real-time | Benefit + Speed | Actionable, immediate |

---

## App Store SEO Title Formula

Your Shopify App Store **title** (50 characters max) should follow this pattern:

**[Brand Name] - [Problem/Benefit]**

Examples:
- ❌ "Printful" (Too short, no problem messaging)
- ✅ "Printful - Print on Demand Fulfillment" (48 chars, clear problem, brand name first)

- ❌ "Support Tool" (Generic, no brand)
- ✅ "Gorgias - AI Customer Support Platform" (37 chars, clear benefit)

- ❌ "Bundle App" (Too generic)
- ✅ "Bundle Blitz - Dynamic Bundle Discounts" (39 chars, specific problem)

**Why this formula:**
1. **Brand name first** → App Store algorithm weights initial keywords
2. **Dash separator** → Clean, readable, improves CTR
3. **Problem/benefit** → Tells merchant exactly what you solve
4. **Under 50 chars** → Displays fully on mobile

---

## Trademark Research Checklist (7-Step Verification)

### Step 1: USPTO Federal Trademark Search
**What to do:** Search tmsearch.uspto.gov for exact match + phonetic variations

- Search 1: Exact name ("Loop Returns")
- Search 2: Phonetic ("Lupe Returns")
- Search 3: Variations ("Loops Return")

**Red flag:** If you find a "LIVE" trademark in Classes 42 (software) or 35 (business services), DO NOT use the name.

**Example:** "AutoRestore" already trademarked for software = skip it

### Step 2: Google Exact Match Search
**What to do:** Google "[Exact Name] Shopify app"

- If 5+ results appear = name is taken or saturated
- If 0-2 results = likely available
- If results are unrelated products = good sign

**Example:**
- "Loop Returns Shopify" = 250+ results (saturated, skip)
- "AutoRestore Shopify" = 0 results (available, move forward)

### Step 3: Shopify App Store Competitor Search
**What to do:** Search Shopify App Store directly for exact name + variations

- Search app store for "[Your Name]"
- Search for "[Your Problem]" (e.g., "returns management")
- Check top 5 results for name similarity

**Example:** If you're naming "Smart Returns," search "returns" in app store and see:
- 12 apps with "returns" in name (market is populated)
- 3 apps very similar to your proposed name (avoid)

### Step 4: Domain Name Availability
**What to do:** Check registrar availability for .com, .io, .app

- Primary: .com (highest trust, 90% of merchants expect this)
- Secondary: .io (tech-forward, if .com taken)
- Tertiary: .app (premium, good if related to problem)

**Example:** "Loop Returns"
- loopreturns.com = Available
- loopreturns.io = Available
- returnloops.app = Taken (don't use this one)

### Step 5: Social Media Handle Verification
**What to do:** Check major platforms for handle availability

Platforms to check:
- Twitter (@yourappname)
- Instagram (@yourappname)
- LinkedIn (company page)
- Facebook (business page)

**Red flag:** If all social handles are taken by competitors = name is "hot" (saturated market)

### Step 6: Trademark Registration (Optional but Recommended)
**What to do:** Consider registering your trademark with USPTO if name is unique

- Cost: ~$300-500 for application
- Timeline: 4-6 months to approval
- Benefit: Legal protection, increases brand value

**When to register:**
- ✅ If you're building a 5-year play (serious founder)
- ✅ If name is truly unique and valuable
- ❌ If you're testing an MVP (wait until $10k MRR)

### Step 7: Phonetic & Similar Variations Check
**What to do:** Google search phonetically similar names

- "Loop Returns" → "Lupe Returns," "Loops Return," "Loop Return"
- Check if similar names have existing trademarks
- Check if existing apps use similar names (confusion risk)

**Red flag:** If very similar names are already trademarked = higher legal risk

---

## Name Evaluation Rubric (Score Your Top 3 Names)

Rate each name on a scale of 1-5 (5 = excellent, 1 = poor):

| Criteria | Weight | Your Top 1 | Your Top 2 | Your Top 3 |
|----------|--------|-----------|-----------|-----------|
| **Memorability** (Can you say it 10x without messing up?) | 25% | ☐/5 | ☐/5 | ☐/5 |
| **Problem Clarity** (Does it immediately signal what it does?) | 25% | ☐/5 | ☐/5 | ☐/5 |
| **Trademark Safety** (No conflicts, no rejections risk?) | 20% | ☐/5 | ☐/5 | ☐/5 |
| **SEO Potential** (Contains relevant keywords?) | 15% | ☐/5 | ☐/5 | ☐/5 |
| **Brand Personality** (Feels professional and unique?) | 15% | ☐/5 | ☐/5 | ☐/5 |
| **TOTAL SCORE** | 100% | ☐/25 | ☐/25 | ☐/25 |

**Scoring guidance:**
- 23-25 = Strong pick, move forward with trademark check
- 20-22 = Acceptable, consider alternatives
- <20 = Weak, keep brainstorming

---

## Top 10 Things NOT to Do When Naming Your App

1. **Don't use "Shop" or "Shopify"** → Automatic rejection (Shopify's trademark)

2. **Don't name it after yourself** → "Bob's Bundle Builder" (not scalable, personal brand limits exit value)

3. **Don't use generic terms** → "Store Tool," "App Manager," "Helper" (no SEO, confused with competitors)

4. **Don't make it hard to spell** → "Zycphlax Returns" (merchants can't find it, organic installs suffer)

5. **Don't overpromise in the name** → "AI Smart Genius Master Returns" (credibility killer, sets false expectations)

6. **Don't use numbers or special characters** → "R3turns2," "Returns@Pro" (harder to remember, unprofessional)

7. **Don't copy competitors exactly** → "Judge Returns" when Judge.me dominates (legal risk, confusion)

8. **Don't use acronyms without branding** → "RMA Pro," "SKU Manager" (too technical, no personality)

9. **Don't name based on current trend** → "Returns AI," "Returns Crypto" (ages poorly, piggybacks on hype)

10. **Don't skip the trademark check** → Using a trademarked name leads to Shopify rejection or legal cease-and-desist

---

## Real-World Naming Decision Tree

```
START: Need to name my Shopify app?
│
├─ Is the name on Shopify's forbidden list (Shop, Shopify, brand names)?
│  ├─ YES → Go back to Step 2, brainstorm again
│  └─ NO → Continue
│
├─ Can I explain what the app does in one sentence using the name alone?
│  ├─ NO → Too vague, rename
│  └─ YES → Continue
│
├─ Is the .com domain available?
│  ├─ NO → Consider .io or .app, or pick a different name
│  └─ YES → Continue
│
├─ Did USPTO trademark search show conflicts in Classes 35 or 42?
│  ├─ YES → High legal risk, pick a different name
│  └─ NO → Continue
│
├─ Is the name memorable (can you say it 10x without stuttering)?
│  ├─ NO → Too complex, simplify
│  └─ YES → Continue
│
├─ Does "Shopify app [name]" Google search show >10 competitors with identical names?
│  ├─ YES → Market is saturated, consider unique variation
│  └─ NO → Continue
│
├─ Are the main social handles (@yourname) available?
│  ├─ NO → Minor issue (can use variations), not blocking
│  └─ YES → Great, move forward
│
└─ DECISION: Name is ready for Shopify submission!
   → Proceed to App Store Listing Optimization skill
```

---

## Output Format (When User Asks for Name Suggestions)

When generating 5-10 name ideas for a user, format as:

```
SHOPIFY APP NAME SUGGESTIONS FOR: [Problem]

TOP RECOMMENDATIONS:

1. [Name]
   Pattern: [Action Verb] + [Problem] + [Differentiator]
   Why it works: [One-sentence reasoning]
   SEO benefit: [Keyword value]
   Trademark risk: [Low/Medium/High]
   .com available: [Yes/No]

2. [Name]
   Pattern: [Formula]
   Why it works: [Reasoning]
   SEO benefit: [Keywords it captures]
   Trademark risk: [Risk level]
   .com available: [Yes/No]

[Continue for all 5-10 names]

RECOMMENDED NEXT STEPS:
1. Choose your top 3 names
2. Run USPTO trademark search on each (tmsearch.uspto.gov)
3. Check .com availability (namecheap.com, godaddy.com)
4. Google "[Name] Shopify app" to check competition
5. Use the Evaluation Rubric above to score them
```

---

## Key Metrics & Success Signals

When you've picked a good name:

- ✅ No trademark conflicts (0 results in USPTO Class 35/42)
- ✅ .com domain available
- ✅ Can say it 10 times without messing up
- ✅ Clearly signals the problem in 1-2 words
- ✅ Shopify submission doesn't auto-reject for naming
- ✅ Merchants searching for the problem will find you (SEO-friendly)

When a name is problematic:

- ❌ Contains "Shop," "Shopify," or brand names
- ❌ Uses non-standard spelling (too niche/hard to remember)
- ❌ Is 5+ words long (impossible to brand)
- ❌ Has zero personality (sounds like generic software)
- ❌ Conflicts with existing trademark (legal risk)
- ❌ Domain is unavailable (credibility issue, customer confusion)

---

## Tools & Resources

**Trademark Search:**
- USPTO: https://tmsearch.uspto.gov (free, official)
- LegalZoom: https://www.legalzoom.com (paid trademark clearance, $300-500)

**Domain Search:**
- Namecheap: https://namecheap.com
- GoDaddy: https://godaddy.com
- Google Domains: https://domains.google

**Shopify App Research:**
- Shopify App Store: https://apps.shopify.com
- Search for "[Your Problem]" directly in store

**Competitor Research:**
- Google: "[Shopify] [Problem] [Top Apps]"
- Reddit r/shopify: https://reddit.com/r/shopify (merchant language patterns)
- Shopify Community: https://community.shopify.com (official forums)